Tires

[M491]

Last month we purchased 4 new Dunlop SP Sport 9000 tires for our 1988 M491.

Two - 245/45/ZR16

One manfuactured in 1989 - DOT K5 AA 08Y 189

One manufactured in 1999 - DOT K5 AA 08Y 199

Two - 205/55/ZR16

Manufactured 2005 - DOT EUSK (XMER0105)

While Michael noted no visible exterior rot, I have concern with the tires manufactured in 1989 and 1999 after seeing the following.  

Comments please, b/c I'm sure you have all visited this issue before.  Thank you!

Donna B.

http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=4826897

 

 

 

 

[Larry Herman]

Based upon my experience and feeling on tire longevity, I would be concerned about running the 1999 tire at speed, and would not use the 1989 tire, period.

I have seen too much deterioration in relatively new tires to risk running old ones.  Though not directly related, I have seen other types of tires deteriorate very quickly, i.e. bicycle tires.  I have had them dry-rot just hanging inside a heated garage for only a few years.  In fact, I just got a flat yesterday when a tube ruptured inside of the tire.  There was no external damage to the tire, and the carcass was smooth and 100% intact.  The tube inside had lost it's elasticity and just blew.

[M491]

Thanks for the feedback!

 

DB

[M491]

FYI:  this is the official response from Goodyear.  In the event you don't see us around, hopefully it's not b/c of a tire issue.

DB

From: paul.appleby@goodyear.com [mailto:paul.appleby@goodyear.com] On Behalf Of goodyear_cr@goodyear.com

Sent: Wednesday, September 03, 2008 9:09 AM

Subject: Re: other

Sent by: Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company Consumer Relations 728 1144 East

Market Street Akron, OH 44316 Voice #: 800.321.2136 Fax #:

330.796.6829

Thank you for contacting our web site and for your interest in tire safety.

The Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) represents the position that there is not one specific chronological age at which tires should be removed from service because there is no data that supports a specific age.

Age is not the key, consistent maintenance, proper inflation and regular inspection for treadwear patterns and damage are the keys to good tire performance.

While there is no data that demonstrates a tire is less safe when it reaches a certain age, for consumers who are concerned about the age or condition of their tires, it is recommended they let a tire professional inspect their tires.