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Vehicle capacity weight
The rated cargo and luggage load plus 68 kilograms (150 lbs.) times the vehicle’s designated seating capacity.
Vehicle maximum load on the tire
The load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the maximum loaded
vehicle weight and dividing by two.
Vehicle normal load on the tire
The load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the curb weight,
accessory weight, and normal occupant weight (distributed in accordance with Table I of CRF 49 571.110) and
dividing by 2.
Weather side
The surface area of the rim not covered by the inflated tire.
Wheel center member
In the case of a non-pneumatic tire assembly incorporating a wheel, a mechanical device which attaches,
either integrally or separably, to the non-pneumatic rim and provides the connection between the non-
pneumatic rim and the vehicle; or, in the case of a non-pneumatic tire assembly not incorporating a wheel, a
mechanical device which attaches, either integrally or separably, to the non-pneumatic tire and provides the
connection between tire and the vehicle.
Wheel-holding fixture
The fixture used to hold the wheel and tire assembly securely during testing.
1.4. Tire Safety - Everything Rides On It
The National 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, from the following web site:
<www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/TireSafety/ridesonit/tires_index.html>
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.
1.5. Safety First–Basic Tire Maintenance
Properly maintained tires improve the steering, stopping, traction, and load-carrying capability of your vehicle.
