Maintenance
9-36
WARNING
The traction grade assigned to this
tire is based on straight-ahead
braking traction tests, and does not
include acceleration, cornering,
hydroplaning, or peak traction
characteristics.
Temperature A, B & C
The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B and C representing the
tire’s resistance to the generation
of heat and its ability to dissipate
heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor
laboratory test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can
cause the material of the tire to
degenerate and reduce tire life, and
excessive temperature can lead to
sudden tire failure.
WARNING
The temperature grade for this
tire is established for a tire that
is properly inflated and not
overloaded. Excessive speed,
under-inflation, over-inflation, or
excessive loading, either separately
or in combination, can cause heat build-up and possible sudden
tire failure. This may cause loss
of vehicle control resulting in an accident.
Tire Terminology and Definitions
Air Pressure
The amount of air inside the tire
pressing outward on the tire. Air
pressure is expressed in kilopascal
(kPa) or pounds per square inch (psi).
Accessory Weight
This means the combined weight
of optional accessories. Some
examples of optional accessories
are automatic transmission, power
seats, and air conditioning.
Aspect Ratio
The relationship of a tire’s height to its width. Belt
A rubber coated layer of cords that
is located between the plies and the
tread. Cords may be made from steel
or other reinforcing materials. Bead
The tire bead contains steel wires
wrapped by steel cords that hold the
tire onto the rim.
Bias Ply Tire
A pneumatic tire in which the plies
are laid at alternate angles less than
90 degrees to the centerline of the
tread.
Cold Tire Pressure
The amount of air pressure in a tire,
measured in kilopascals (kPa) or
pounds per square inch (psi) before a
tire has built up heat from driving.
Curb Weight
This means the weight of a motor
vehicle with standard and optional equipment including the maximum
capacity of fuel, oil and coolant, but
without passengers and cargo.
