39
2008 IMPERIAL
DRIVING & SAFETY — 2
Tire Vibration
Sudden tire failure is often preceded by tire
vibration. Symptoms that can cause tire failure
are a bulge in the sidewall or swelling in the
tire carcass. Striking an object or large hole
in the road surface can damage a tire. Inspect
the tires periodically thereafter as rotational
forces can continue to stress damaged areas
and later manifest in tire failure. If an unusual
vibration begins, or a bulge is noticed in the
sidewall, have the tires evaluated by a quali
fi
ed
professional as soon as possible.
Tire Rotation
Tire rotation can increase the useful life of the
tires by achieving uniform wear on all of the
tires. Have the tire manufacturer determine the
rotation pattern. The
fi
rst tire rotation is the most
important in determining which rotation pattern
to use. Any unusual or unique wear patterns,
or indications of uneven wear that may have
developed, should be evaluated for possible
tire rotation. Misalignment, imbalance or other
mechanical problems may exist and will need to
be corrected prior to rotation.
Tread
To prevent skidding and hydroplaning, replace
tires when the tread is worn down to 4/32"
on the front and 2/32" on the rear. Questions
regarding tread wear should be directed to the
tire manufacturer.
Built in tread wear indicators, or wear
indicators which look like narrow strips of
smooth rubber across the tread, will appear on
the tire when the tread is worn down to 2/32".
The tire should be replaced when the wear
indicators are noticed.
Visually check the tires for signs of uneven
wear. Signs of irregular tread wear are usually
exhibited by low or unusually smooth areas on
the tire surface. Consult the tire manufacturer as
soon as possible.
WARNING:
In many instances tire life is not
determined by mileage, but by age.
Tires are subject to weathering.
Weathering cracks run in circumference
with the tire. Though the sidewall of
the tire may look structurally sound,
weathering can occur inside the well of
the tread. Have the tire manufacturer
inspect the tires for age weathering.
Storage of Tires - Long Term
A cool, dry garage with a sealed cement
fl
oor
is the preferred method of storage. Tires stored
outside may prematurely age.
Prior to Storage:
Thoroughly clean the tires.
Unload the motorhome to reduce weight
on the tires.
Ensure the surface is reasonably level,
fi
rm, clean and has good drainage.
In
fl
ate the tires to the maximum in
fl
ation
pressure as indicated on the Federal
Identi
fi
cation Tag.
During Storage:
Cover the tires to block direct sunlight.
Periodically ensure tires are at proper
pressure.
Move the motorhome every three
months to prevent cracking in bulge
areas, as well as
fl
at spotting from
prolonged sidewall strain and tread
de
fl
ection.
Removal from Storage:
Before removing the motorhome from long-
term storage thoroughly
inspect
each tire’s
tread area and air pressure. If the tires have lost
air during storage, in
fl
ate them to the correct
pressure.
WHEEL MOUNTING
Hub Piloted Mounting:
Flange nuts generate higher
clamping force. Always use
grade eight studs with hub
mount wheels.
Before installing the
wheels, lubricate the hub
pilot pads with a drop of
oil to prevent galling.
DO
NOT
lubricate any other
wheel or hub surface.
For a hub with intermittent
pilot pads, position a pad at
the twelve o’clock position
to center the wheel and
reduce runout.
Flange Nut:
Front & Side
View.
090268c
