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TRUCK SERVICE MANUAL
TM 5-4210-230-14&P-1
WHEELS, RIMS, TIRES
CHAPTER 2 - TIRES AND TUBES
GENERAL
Proper maintenance and careful driving will result in
maximum  tire  life.    When  a  tire  is  properly  inflated  it  will
provide  maximum  traction,  resist  damage  from  road  shock,
tires   will   run   cooler   and   "squirm"   less   than   at   a   lower
pressure.  A tire properly inflated can be injured when a chuck
hole, curb or other object is struck with sufficient force.  When
driving on a rough surface road slow down.  Tread wear can
be    shortened    by    driving    habits    such    as,    sudden    stops,
excessive  use  of  brakes,  driving  at  excessive  speeds,  and
riding on edge of pavement.
Air  pressure  is  what  enables  tires  to  support  a  load
and proper inflation is essential for maximum tire life.  Refer
to the vehicles operator manual or tire manufacturer's inflation
chart     for     proper     air     pressure.          Remember     that     the
recommended  pressures  are  cool  tire  pressure.    Check  air
pressure before driving or after tires have a chance to cool.
"Bleeding"    air    from    hot    tires    should    never    be
practiced.    The  pressure  will  be  reduced,  but  an  increase  in
temperature   and   pressure   will   result   as   soon   as   driving
continues.
TREAD WEAR PATTERNS
Underinflation:
The abnormal wear of the treads as shown in Fig. 12
is    due    to    underinflation.        Increase    air    pressure    to    the
recommended level.  Never exceed maximum tire pressure.
Fig. 12  Underinflation Causes Excessive Side Tread Wear
Overinflation:
Excessive  wear  in  the  center  of  the  tread  is  due  to
overinflation,  Fig.  13.    Never  "bleed"  air  from  hot  tires.    The
pressure  will  be  reduced  but  an  increase  in  temperature  will
result as soon as driving continues.
Fig. 13  Overinflation, Excessive Wear in Center of Tread
Fast Cornering:
Fast   cornering   causes   tires   to   wear   more   on   the
shoulders of the tread as shown in Fig. 14. Slow down before
negotiating curves or corners.
Fig. 14  Fast Cornering Results in Excessive Wear on
Shoulders of Tread
CTS-2167N  Page 7
PRINTED IN UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
 
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