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Avoiding tyre troubles
There are many individual causes of tyre troubles. However, the three abuses which will cause most problems, and the greatest costs, are underinflation, overloading and speeding.
Underinflation
Surveys show that at least 20% of all tyres are significantly underinflated. Neglect of inflation pressures is one of the principle causes of rapid shoulder wear, uneven tread wear and premature tyre failure, and it is an abuse which surveys show to be on the increase. NB. It should be stressed that overinflation may also result in inferior vehicle handling, excessive tyre wear and premature failure.
Overloading
Loading cars, light vans and lightweight trailers above what they are designed to carry is illegal. It is also likely to put excessive strain on the tyres, resulting in greater than normal deflection and overheating which, in turn, lead to more rapid wear, greater susceptibility to impact damage and the danger of premature failure. NB. The vehicle’s handbook will give increased inflation pressures for full load conditions.
Speeding
Travelling for long distances on motorways at sustained high speeds and generally exceeding statutory speed limits imposes strenuous demands on tyres, especially in terms of heat generation. Tyres in good condition and correctly inflated are designed to withstand the heat build-up at their maximum rated speeds. However, if inflation pressures are significantly below those recommended then excessive heat will be generated and, in consequence, wear will be accelerated and deflection will be greater with the risk of premature, and sometimes catastrophic, failure.
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