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Tire Size
To maintain tire safety, purchase new tires that are the same size as the
vehicle’s original tires or another size recommended by the manufacturer.
Look at the tire information placards, or the sidewall of the tire you are
replacing to find this information. If you have any doubt about the correct
size to choose, consult with the tire dealer.
NEVER
replace a tire with a
smaller size or a lower weight rating.
Tire Tread
The tire tread provides the gripping action and traction that prevent your
vehicle from slipping or sliding, especially when the road is wet or icy. In
general, tires are not safe and should be replaced when the tread is worn
down to 1/16 of an inch. Tires have built-in tread wear indicators that let
you know when it is time to replace your tires. These indicators are raised
sections spaced intermittently in the bottom of the tread grooves. When
they appear “even” with the outside of the tread, it is time to replace your
tires.
Tire Balance and Wheel Alignment
Tires are not balanced on your unit, nor is it required. You may choose to
balance the tires on your unit, however this will not be covered under
warranty.
Wheel alignments may be needed periodically due to road hazards, such
as pot holes, etc. This also is not covered under warranty, due to being
an uncontrollable element. Wheel alignments will assist with getting the
maximum life from your tires. Alignments require special equipment, and
should be performed by a qualified technician.
Tire Repair
The proper repair of a punctured tire requires a plug for the hole and a
patch for the area inside the tire that surrounds the puncture hole.
Punctures through the tread can be repaired if they are not too large, but
punctures to the sidewall should not be repaired. Tires must be removed
from the rim to be properly inspected before being plugged and patched.
Tire Fundamentals
Federal law requires tire manufacturers to place standardized information
on the sidewall of all tires. This information identifies and describes the
fundamental characteristics of the tire and also provides a tire
identification number for safety standard certification and in case of a
recall.
Considerable quantity of information is built into the sidewall of tire, such
as size, weight capacity, air pressure allowed, serial number, and where
it was built.
The letters “ST” refer to “service trailer” tires used on most RVs,
manufactured for that purpose and not for automotive.
