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Why tires fail

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Feathering of tread ribs is almost always the result of misalignment – usually excessive toe-in or out – or damaged steering or chassis components.

Scalloping or cupped tread around the entire circumference usually results from tire/wheel out-of-balance condition, improper mounting, or other assembly non-uniformity.

A crack extending from internal repair indicates that the original injury was too large for the nail-hole repair performed.

Circumferential break in mid to upper sidewall, exposing an even line of broken cords, is a zipper failure. It’s caused by severe underinflation, which fatigues casing cords.

Brittle, distorted, cooked rubber limited to the bead area says heat was transmitted through the wheel. Causes include frequent hard braking, improperly adjusted, defective or dragging brakes, or insufficient air flow around the brakes.

A torn bead could have been caused by a forklift or by poor mounting/dismounting procedures. If there is no rust or damage to the wire, the bead can be repaired and the tire returned to service.

Using petroleum-based products or antifreeze as a lubricant when mounting or dismounting the tire can cause blistering, swelling or sponginess in the bead area. The tire should be scrapped.