Merritt GOOSENECK LIVESTOCK TRAILER, Owner'S Manual

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WHEELS AND TIRES
8-4
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 placard, the owner's manual, 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.
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. Another method for checking tread depth is to place a penny
in the tread with Lincoln's head upside down and facing you. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, you are ready
for new tires.
Wheel Alignment
A wheel alignment adjusts the angles of the wheels so that they are positioned correctly relative to the vehicle's
frame. This adjustment maximizes the life of your tires and prevents your car from veering to the right or left when
driving on a straight, level road. These adjustments 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.
Information on Passenger Vehicle Tires
P
The "P" indicates the tire is for passenger vehicles.
Next number
This three-digit number gives the width in millimeters of the tire from sidewall edge to sidewall edge. In general, the
larger the number, the wider the tire.
Next number
This two-digit number, known as the aspect ratio, gives the tire's ratio of height to width. Numbers of 70 or lower
indicate a short sidewall for improved steering response and better overall handling on dry pavement.
R
The "R" stands for radial. Radial ply construction of tires has been the industry standard for the past 20 years.