Brandt H550 Series, Owner'S Manual

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Heavy Haul Trailers
4.9 Tire Safety
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has published a brochure (DOT HS 809
361) that discusses all aspects of Tire Safety, as required by CFR 575.6. This brochure is reproduced in
part below. It can be obtained and downloaded from NHTSA, free of charge.
Studies of tire safety show that maintaining proper tire pressure, observing tire and vehicle load limits
(not carrying more weight in your vehicle than your tires or vehicle can safely handle), avoiding road
hazards, and inspecting tires for cuts, slashes, and other irregularities are the most important things
you can do to avoid tire failure, such as tread separation or blowout and flat tires. These actions, along
with other care and maintenance activities, can also:
•
Improve vehicle handling,
•
Help protect you and others from avoidable breakdowns and accidents,
•
Improve fuel economy,
•
Increase the life of your tires.
This booklet presents a comprehensive overview of tire safety, including information on the following
topics:
•
Basic tire maintenance,
•
Uniform Tire Quality Grading System,
•
Fundamental characteristics of tires,
•
Tire safety tips.
Use this information to make tire safety a regular part of your vehicle maintenance routine. Recognize
that the time you spend is minimal compared with the inconvenience and safety consequences of a
flat tire or other tire failure.