Tyres
Caring for your tyres is often neglected except when you get an advisory or failure on a MOT ! Here’s some tips that were picked up a Pirelli & Porsche tyre information meeting.
Tyres contain anti-oxidants and antiozonants which are organic compounds added into the rubber to keep the rubber pliable, slow deterioration and stop the sidewalls oxidising which would result in a brown residue. By using the tyres frequently or if storing the vehicle, rotate the wheels & tyres weekly if possible. This would also prevent flat spots too.
Dampness exists in air inside tyres that can corrode the wheels. The wheels are generally not lacquered on the inside either. Filling with nitrogen is more ideal but is an expensive/lengthy process.
Most manufacturers recommend changing tyres after 5 years if not changed regardless of remaining tread. Some manufacturers such as Porsche recommend changing from summer tyres to winter tyres on all its models for optimum safety and performance.
Summer tyres start to lose their effectiveness around 7 degrees C.
Winter tyres efficacy kicks in at about that same temperature.
Technical
The tyre width, e.g. 305 is a nominal figure and the actual size can vary from 302 to 309 (accepted tolerance) The width can actually be slightly different depending on the tyre model design.
EV tyres need to take into account the heavy vehicle weight and the road noise as the cabin is quieter than normal
Sidewalls of some models of tyres with a SUV or XL tag, will have a more flexible sidewall to allow for more weight, loads and demands of the tyres on off road surfaces.
Different variants of a model of tyre exist, for example, a Pirelli P Zero for a Porsche 911 would be best fitted with P Zero NAO which has been designed with the 911’s attributes and handling when driving.
Tyre Fitting
Tyre fitting equipment exists for changing the tyre without damaging the rim. The machine clamps in the centre and uses lasers to measure and remove the tyre.
A tyre rolling resistance machine (similar to a wheel balancing machine) exists at some garages that gives ~740lbs of pressure onto a tyre to simulate the wheel/tyre on the road. This provides the pinpointing of any vibration.
Tyre Damage
Tyre damage is annoying and usually not caused by the driver. Damage can be to the sidewall caused by kerbing, a nail or screw. Ironically newly fitted tyres are more prone to picking up nails and screws and they easily embed in the channels in the tread pattern.
Some punctures caused by a nail or screw can be plugged if the puncture if fairly central on the tyre which is cheaper than a replacement tyre!
Other damage to your tyres can be the result of neglecting them! If your tracking is out, you may experience wear tear where it may not be easily visible.
Correct inflation is important as generally over inflation will result in more wear to the centre of the tyres, under inflation will cause premature wear to the outer sections. ©
