Planning ahead

Selecting the proper tire is also important if an operation is to realize the benefits of retreading. Consider choosing major tire brands when purchasing new tires. A tire’s casing is approximately 75 percent of the tire construction weight. Major manufacturers have invested heavily in research and development of premium casings, which are likely to be better candidates for retreading.

An authorized off-road tire dealer can help operators choose tires that are good candidates for retreading. Casings with few injuries and no signs of separations are most desirable. Casings with low hours of operations are preferred for retreading as casings with high hours often tend to fatigue and fail during the retread curing process or during normal operation after retreading.

Just as it is important to select the correct ply rating and load range for new tires, it is equally important when retreading to match the ply rating and load range of the original tire with the retread design. Servicing retreading dealers may be the best source of information for proper retreading procedures.

Tire maintenance

Even with today’s enhanced technologies, state-of-the-art manufacturing processes, and other checks and balances, the human element remains paramount to proper tire maintenance.

It’s not puffery to say that a sound inflation program is not only the foundation for good tire maintenance, but it is also the single most important factor with regard to tire performance. Correct air pressure is determined by several factors. Load, speed, type of equipment, and operating conditions are the primary factors. Ideally, operators should familiarize themselves with the guidelines set forth by the tire manufacturer when determining inflation pressure. This is especially true before any consideration is given to stepping outside of the tire manufacturer’s parameters.

A tire inflated to 70 percent of its recommended air pressure will wear out or most likely fail during the first 50 percent of its life. If that does not get your attention, nothing else will! A couple of important rules to follow involving air pressure include the following:

1. Regular air pressure checks (and re-inflation) should be made when the tires are cold.
2. It is normal for air pressure to increase when tires are hot from running, therefore never bleed air from a tire when it is hot.

Other regular maintenance activities should also include proper tire matching, rotation, removal of stones/rocks wedged between dual tires, and proper repairs. All of these maintenance practices will enhance tire performance. Also, fuel and oil leaks exposed to tires will soften the rubber, promote premature wear, and potentially cause failure.