Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/34500
NEVER exceed vehicle limitations because of improved handling. A tire with a wider footprint is going to provide increased lateral stability when cornering. As a result of this increased lateral stability, the truck will have a tendency to lean less in turns. The increased lateral stability should not equate to increased speed. Always obey posted speed limits on the highways and curves. A good rule of thumb for vehicles with high rollover thresholds (i.e., tankers, concrete mixers) is to take the curves at the posted limit less 10 mph. RAPID AIR LOSS PROCEDURE Even though the MICHELIN ® ® X One tire is an innovative product, it still requires proper air pressure maintenance and visual inspection practices. Tire failure can and will occur. Below you will find a handy reference of the procedure to bring the vehicle to a safe stop following a rapid air loss event: Indications: (Some or all of the following may apply.) – No change in handling – Slight lean (depending on wheel position) – Vibrations – Audible noise when rapid air loss occurs Immediate Actions: – Accelerate enough to maintain lane position. (DONOT apply brakes immediately.) – Do not apply maximum brake pressure to bring the vehicle to a stop. This stop should be gradual by pumping the brakes. – Creating assembly lock-up can cause irrepairable damage to tire, wheel, axle components, and vehicle. – Pull the vehicle to a safe area. – Do not attempt to limp further down the road. Secondary Actions: – Turn on flashers – Deploy safety triangles – Inspect vehicle for damage – Call for assistance * The information provided is for reference only. Chains-specific questions should be directed to the chains manufacturer. This can be simplified by remembering the following: DROP ROLL and STOP In other words, the vehicle lean or DROP may be the first indication of a rapid air loss. Don’t jam on the brakes! Pumping the brakes will allow the damaged wheel end to ROLL to a STOP without lock-up. There are many MICHELIN X One tire training videos including rapid air loss handling, and specific application demonstrations. To obtain one of these, contact your local MICHELIN dealer or the MICHELIN sales representative in your area. TRACTION Traction is dependent on the following variables: – speed – tread depth – conditions (dry or wet, depth of water) – tread design – tread rubber compound – road surface (concrete, asphalt) CHAINS Depending on the state in which you are traveling, chains may or may not be required. If chains are required, several companies have chains available for the MICHELIN ® X One tire. The thing to remember ® when purchasing chains for your MICHELIN X One tire ® ® is the tire size, as the 445/50R22.5 chains don’t fit the 455/55R22.5 and vice versa. For more information, consult your local dealer or go to www.tirechains.com*. 62 Operation and Handling