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Tyresafe PDF
Tyresafe PDF
TYRE FITTERS
The following organisations contributed material which
was used to produce this guideline:
Aim Distributors
Bandag New Zealand Limited
Beaurepaires for Tyres
BMW New Zealand Limited
Bridgestone/Firestone (NZ) Ltd
Continental Vehicle Distributors Limited
Eastwood Forklift Tyres
Environment Canterbury
Environment Southland
Honda New Zealand Limited (LMVD)
Independent Tyre Specialists Limited
Land Transport Safety Authority
Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand Ltd
Motor Trade Association
New Zealand Motor Industry Training Organisation
Oliver Tyre & Rubber Co of New Zealand Limited
Powerpac Tools Ltd
Shell New Zealand Limited
South Pacific Tyres NZ Ltd
Tech Tyre Repairs Ltd
The Tyre General, Temuka
Toyota New Zealand Limited
TRS Agri-Tire Ltd
Tyre Seal New Zealand
U-Save Partsworld
Upper Hutt Tyres and Alignments
Value Tyres Limited
Waihou Engineering
Wellington Motorcycles
Whangarei Truck and Tractor Spares
Young Motors Limited
www.osh.dol.govt.nz
ISBN 0-477-03650-3
Contents
I: Introduction 5
Accidents while inflating tyres tend to be serious, because of the high air
pressures and the heavy objects involved. All too often apprentices or
inexperienced workers are asked to work with tyres without adequate
training or even knowing the risks involved.
Employers must ensure that every tyre fitter is adequately trained, and
knows, understands, and uses the correct procedures and equipment.
Employers are also responsible for ensuring that contractors including tyre
fitters operate safely while on their premises. This guide will help employ-
ers understand their duties and responsibilities.
Tyre fitters must be Tyre fitters must use the correct procedures and equipment, and work in a
adequately trained, way which ensures the safety of themselves, and others.
and use the correct
procedures and This guide draws on an earlier Department of Labour booklet Tyre Safety,
equipment. which since 1988 has been a standard reference for the tyre industry. It
has been updated to take account of changes in technology and new safety
issues such as anticipating zippers in the sudden failure of steel-reinforced
sidewalls, and safety rules for wheel alignments on vehicles fitted with air
bags. Other health and safety issues include the use of antifreeze in tyres,
choice of tyres and combinations of tyres. There is additional information
on managing hazards of lifting, and hazards of noise. We have attempted to
define the boundary between Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) and
the Land Transport Safety Authority (LTSA), both regulators with interests
in tyre safety.
This guide has been written with the help of several members of the tyre
industry, and people with a professional interest in safe work with tyres. It
is a consensus of what these people consider is safe practice. It does not
have the force of law, but may be presented to a Court as a statement of
practicable steps in terms of the Health and Safety in Employment Act
1992. In this guide, “shall” indicates that a statement is mandatory.
“Should” indicates a recommendation.
Health and Safety Guidelines for Tyre Fitters addresses new safety and
health issues, building on the proven support for Tyre Safety.
If you work with tyres, there are four major sources of hazard. They are:
• compressed air;
• heavy objects;
• noise.
Compressed Air
Your eyes are particularly at risk, both from high-velocity air and from
particles of dust, metal, oil, and other debris, which may be propelled by the
air. Always wear suitable eye protection. The rest of your body is also at risk
from compressed air. Suitable overalls will protect the skin from light
particles of debris, provided they are not blown at a high velocity. However,
no overalls can protect you against high-velocity air at close range. Particles
may be blown right through your overalls and skin and into your body. The
air can be blown straight into your bloodstream, causing swelling and in-
tense pain, particularly if you have any cuts, punctures or sores which make
entry easier. The air may be carried to the small blood vessels of the brain
and cause them to burst, resulting in death.
ACCIDENT CASE
All pressure gauges and control devices must be checked against a master
pressure gauge at least annually or straight after any heavy impact. Your life
may depend on it.
Compressed air hand tools (but not compressors and associated equipment)
are exempt from the Health and Safety in Employment (Pressure Equip-
ment, Cranes, and Passenger Ropeways) Regulations 1999 (PECPR Regula-
KEY POINTS
Where possible,
4
always deflate all
tyres before removing
them from vehicles. 5 Don’t kink the air hose to stop or cut down the airflow — you
weaken the hose. Use the pressure control for adjusting air pres-
sure.
6 Don’t leave air hoses where vehicles or any other heavy equipment
can run over them, because this can weaken or damage them.
8 Never use an air line that is not fitted with a pressure gauge or a
pressure control device.
ACCIDENT CASE
The bead of a new tyre would not seat as the fitter was fitting the tyre
to the rear wheel of a motorcycle. He raised the inflation pressure to try
to force the bead to the corner of the rim; tyre pressure soon reached
420 kPa (60 psi), which was 150% of the maximum pressure. At this
pressure, or slightly more, the tyre bead blew, forcing his hand against
the chain and sprocket with enough force to break bones in his hand.
Divided wheels, split rims and locking rings are especially likely to explode
because of poor maintenance, incorrect fitting, and assembly or disassembly
while inflated. The most common faults are over-inflation, removal of split
rim fastening nuts instead of wheel fastening nuts, failure to ensure correct
seating of split rims or tyre beads, and the use of damaged parts, or parts
with lesser strength than original. Be aware that non-original after market
nuts and bolts may be inadequate. It is essential to deflate tyres before
wheel removal to ensure that removing the wrong nuts does not cause
serious or fatal accidents.
ACCIDENT CASE
Zippers which tear tyre sidewalls expel shrapnel of rubber and steel which
can penetrate skin and eyes. Escaping air can easily blow tyres across a
Zippers expel shrapnel workshop with force.
of rubber and steel
which can cause
serious injuries.
Because of the risk of explosion, you must use tyre safety cages, or other
suitable restraining devices, at all times.
Heavy Objects
Tyre and wheel assemblies of large vehicles are often too heavy to be han-
dled safely by one person. Even the strongest person can suffer a hernia,
slipped disc, sprain or broken bone when handling loads that are too heavy.
Such injuries can be very painful and limiting.
KEY POINT
Noise
Given many years of tyre fitting, hearing damage may affect tyre fitters.
Causes are compressed air blowing freely, and noise from impact wrenches,
and from wheel parts and tools dropping on concrete floors. The impact of
steel on concrete floors can be quietened with rubber mats.
KEY POINT
Always wear ear plugs or muffs, because the noise can affect your hearing
long-term.
Here are the general safety rules you should observe at all times:
1 Where possible, deflate all tyres especially on divided rims and
multi-piece rims before removing them from vehicles.
3 Don’t start any job for which you have not been trained, unless you
are being directly supervised by a person who is both competent
and authorised to train you.
5 When starting any repair, ensure you are familiar with the type of
vehicle, and the procedures required, before you begin work.
ACCIDENT CASE
Two employees were using a compressed air hose to blow dust from
their clothing. One man pushed a hose between the legs of a fellow
worker from behind. The victim’s lower bowel was torn open, his abdo-
men ballooned with air and he died from his injuries.
NOTE: This incident occurred in a carpenter’s workshop, but the mes-
sage is relevant to the tyre industry.
An 18-year-old tyre fitter sat on the tailgate of the service truck while
he waited for the truck tyre on the ground beneath him to inflate. He
had only 9 months’ experience, and had not previously seen the type
of rim, a trilex type rim, to which he had fitted the tyre. There was no
direct supervision of his service work, and he had used his boot instead
of a soft headed hammer to try to seat the rim pieces. Placing the tyre
beneath the tailgate was ineffective, because the tailgate was hinged
and able to swivel upwards when the tyre exploded. When the tyre/rim
assembly exploded, he was catapulted 1.8 metres into the air.
(a) For car and motorcycle tyres, use a clip-on chuck and hand
control device.
(b) For light truck, truck and industrial tyres, use a clip-on chuck
and 2-metre hose connected to a hand control device.
11 Waste bins for rubber or other flammable refuse should have close-
fitting lids, and should not be used as ashtrays.
KEY POINTS
Make sure that you are safely dressed, use the right equipment and have the
right information.
3 Always use the correct accessories. Do not use worn, warped and
damaged accessories.
4 Always use the correct air hose and fittings such as an inlet bush-
ing, hose nipple and hose coupler and inspect them regularly for
wear and damage and replace when necessary.
5 Check the air hose and connections before use. (If the hose comes
away while you’re working with the inflator or the air tool, it can
damage the vehicle, or injure you.)
6 Keep the air hose clear of working parts of the air tool so that it
doesn’t get caught in them.
7 Check that all attachments are tight before starting the air tool.
Remember to always disconnect the tool from the air supply when
changing attachments.
8 Do not use the air hose for supporting, lifting or lowering the tool.
9 Make sure before use that the tool runs as per its specifications.
The tool should be used according to its capacity and only for its
own purpose. Do not burst into full speed operation. Avoid any
bumping action and excessive pressure.
10 Do not use the tool in a place which is filled with flammable gas.
Friction or bumping of the tools with the work or another object
may cause sparks and there is a possibility that a fire or an explo-
sion may take place.
11 Never use or continue to operate the tool when you feel abnormal
vibration, hear unusual sounds, notice unusual changes in speed or
find any other irregularities.
Always use correct
torque for the type of
wheel.
12 Torque for a particular wheel shall be followed. All nuts should be
manually checked for torque with a manual wrench.
Even when lifting or picking up light objects, injury can occur if correct
lifting technique is not followed.
When rolling or bowling wheels, always keep them under control. Don’t roll
or bowl them in an uncontrolled manner across the workshop floor, endan-
gering fellow workers.
KEY POINTS
3 At all times keep your back straight. The bend comes from your
hips and knees. Bend at the knees and keep your back fairly
straight, not arched.
4 Get a safe grip using the palms of your hands. When you have a
firm grip on the object with both hands, lift by straightening your
legs.
Measuring Noise
Sound is measured in decibels or dBA.
If you are using an impact gun to loosen wheel nuts, or are standing next to
a noisy compressor, the noise level can be well over 90 dBA. Hitting metal
objects with a hammer, or dropping steel tyre levers on to concrete floors,
can produce very loud sounds that may lead to hearing damage.
Compressed air blown from a hose can be loud, especially when it strikes a
solid edge.
As the noise level gets higher, damage will occur over a shorter period.
If you have answered “YES” to any of these questions, chances are that
noise in your workplace could be putting your hearing at risk.
Compressed air for blowing should come from low-pressure air lines, using
special nozzles. Hearing protection must be worn while using impact tools.
A typical lace-up
1 Industrial overalls, which should be close fitting (particularly
around the wrists) and worn fastened to the neck. Sleeves should
be kept down, not rolled up.
safety shoe with
protective toe cap.
2 Eye protection is essential. Your eyesight is precious; an accident
could blind you for life. Various types of goggles or visors are
satisfactory, but if spectacles are used, they must be fitted with
side shields.
6 Gloves help protect your hands from injury. Wear gloves when
handling sharp tools or checking for punctures. Sharp objects
protruding from tyres can cut hands.
Example of hi-
visibility vest,
suitable for day or
night conditions.
Other Equipment
Other equipment may be necessary in particular circumstances. Only the
correct hammers, levers, lubricants, bolts, and other tools are to be used.
Never use equipment that you know or suspect is faulty or inadequate.
Report the fault or inadequacy to your supervisor.
Disposal of Antifreeze
Antifreeze is likely to be present in water-filled tractor tyres used in cold
climates. Ethylene glycol is a highly toxic chemical used for antifreeze.
Antifreeze solution could create handling and disposal problems. When
draining antifreeze solution, keep in mind that cats and dogs are attracted
by the ethylene glycol, and are likely to drink any that is left in an uncov-
ered container or in puddles on the ground. Even small quantities swallowed
will be fatal.
Always drain the antifreeze into a clean and uncontaminated sealable con-
tainer. The container should be labelled and dated for future identification,
and stored in a clean, dry and secure place where spills can be contained.
Antifreeze should be reused unless it is contaminated or several years old.
Antifreeze is often Ethylene glycol will also be present in a number of tyre sealants.
added to the water in
water-filled tractor Disposal of antifreeze in the sewage system or in septic tanks may only
tyres in cold climates. occur if it is authorised, and requires consent from your Territorial Local
Authority. Antifreeze for disposal in sewers must be diluted to 20% to 30%;
15% or less for disposal in septic tanks. Antifreeze must not be disposed of
in storm water or allowed to enter streams. Ask your local authority or
regional council about correct disposal.
Some farmers add calcium chloride to tyre ballast water. Water containing
calcium chloride is more dense than pure water. Calcium chloride lowers the
freezing point and acts as anti-freeze. For advice on disposal, ask your
Territorial Local Authority.
A lways be sure that a tyre is mounted on to the correct size and type of
rim. It is dangerous to install a tyre of one rim diameter on a rim of a
different diameter. Also, you should never mount or use damaged tyres,
tubes or rims. Always replace a tyre on a rim with another tyre of exactly
the same rim diameter designation and suffix letters. For example a 16-inch
tyre goes with a 16-inch rim. You should never mount a 16-inch diameter
tyre on a 16.5-inch rim. It may be possible to pass the tyre over the lip or
flange of the rim but the tyre cannot be inflated enough to position itself
against the rim flange. If you attempt to seat the tyre bead by inflation, it
will break with explosive force and could cause serious injury or death.
During the fitting of a new 15-inch tyre in the defendant’s tyre bay, the
plaintiff was severely injured when the tyre exploded on the 15.3 inch
wheel rim as the tyre was being inflated. The plaintiff’s injuries were
severe — he suffered severe shock; intra-abdominal bleeding and
injury to his liver; lacerations to his scalp; puncture wound over the left
shoulder; a closed displaced fracture of the left arm; compound
fracturing of the shafts of the second, third and fourth fingers of his left
hand; crushed and fractured ribs; left leg almost severed through the
knee, and some unspecified brain damage.
The plaintiff was awarded exemplary damages.
KEY POINT
Radial 185 S R 14
Nominal rim diameter (inches)
Radial
Speed rating symbol
Nominal section width (mm)
P 185/60 R 14 82 H
Speed rating symbol
Load index
Nominal rim diameter (inches)
Radial
Nominal aspect ratio (%)
Nominal section width (mm)
Passenger tyre
220/65 R 390 97 V
Speed rating symbol
Load index
Nominal rim diameter (mm)
Radial
Nominal aspect ratio (%)
Nominal section width (mm)
195 R 14 LT or C
Light truck or commercial
Nominal rim diameter (inches)
Radial
Nominal selection width (mm)
LT 235/85 R 16 115/113 L
Speed rating symbol
Load index - single/dual
Nomination rim diameter (inches)
Radial
Nominal aspect ratio (%)
Nominal section width (mm)
Light truck tyre
10.00 R 20 16PR
Ply rating
Radial construction
Radial construction
Radial construction
Tractor Tyres
These come in two types of markings or a combination of both, the differ-
ence being a change in nominal section width when tyres started to be
fitted to wider rims. For example:
18.4 - 30 8PR
Ply rating
18.4 R 30 142 A8
Load index
Radial
Load index
Radial
Industrial Tyres
21 x 8 - 10 14PR
Ply rating
Industrial construction
Ply rating
ATV Tyres
AT 22 x 8 - 10
All terrain
RATING / SPEED
V 240 kph
•W 270 kph
•Y 300 kph
• For tyres having a maximum speed capability of more than 240 kph,
a ZR may appear in the size designation. For tyres having a maximum
speed capability greater than 300 kph, a ZR must appear in the size
designation.
KEY POINT
Space saver tyres should only be used in an emergency to get the driver
directly home or to a place to get the regular tyre repaired and refitted to
the vehicle. Space saver tyre users should also be careful to comply with the
tyre’s inflation requirements (commonly about 350 - 420 kPa (50 - 60 psi),
i.e. much higher than a normal car tyre) and speed restriction (maximum 80
kph). If drivers follow these guidelines, and their space saver tyre is in good
Space saver tyres condition, it’s safe to drive on.
should only be used in
an emergency. However, you need to remember that the vehicle’s handling may be affected
when a space saver tyre is fitted. Never fit more than one space saver tyre
to a vehicle.
Intermixing - General
All steering wheel movements produce lateral force on the tyres. The reac-
tion of a tyre to these lateral forces varies according to its structure. There-
fore, for interchangeability of tyres without modification of the vehicle
handling characteristics, it is necessary to take into account the tyre size
and construction. Ideally, tyres should be in complete sets of the same type
and construction. Some intermixing is allowable, however, while other
combinations are either not recommended or not permitted. Basic rules:
4 Asymmetric tread tyres must be fitted the right way round on the
rim so that the respective side walls are in contact with the correct
side of the rim. These must be fitted so that the “outside” sidewall
marking is facing outward.
1 If a space saver has been fitted for emergency use, the space saver
must be returned to the spare wheel position as soon as possible.
Dual Tyres
Tyres paired as duals require special treatment to ensure maximum poten-
tial mileage, regular wear and safety to both operator and tyre service
persons.
For vehicles such as agricultural tractors and other low-speed vehicles where
radial and crossply tyres are fitted to the same vehicle, it is recommended
that the radial and crossply tyres be fitted to different axles and not mixed
on the same axle.
Safety Rules
1 Always remove valve core and fully deflate forklift tyres prior to
removing the wheel nuts, especially on divided or bolt-together
3 Always obtain the correct information for the rim or tyre from the
product manufacturer, or their designated representative. All
reputable manufacturers produce specification information on their
products.
Never try to remove
the split rim fastening
nuts instead of the
wheel fastening nuts
4 Always consult the forklift manufacturer before altering any tyre
specification on a forklift. You must ensure the rated load carrying
capacity and stability of the forklift will not be affected.
— this has caused
fatalities.
ACCIDENT CASE
General Requirements
After deflation and tyre removal, clean and inspect rim and components for
cracks and deformation. If in doubt, discard rim assembly. Check nuts, bolts
and washers used in divided or bolt-together rims. If any are damaged,
always replace them as a set with the correct grade and size.
Never mix and match multi-piece rim components. Always ensure that all of
the components are correctly fitted to the rim when reassembling. The bead
seat (or advance) band must be fitted, if the rim is designed to have one. If
the rim is designed to have a bead seat band, and it is missing, this is a
valid reason to reject the rim.
Most divided rims are only rated to 690 kPa (6.90 bar = 100 psi). This
makes them unsuitable for radial forklift tyre fitment due to their higher
inflation pressure requirement of 900 to 1000 kPa (9.00 to 10.00 bar = 130
to 145 psi). Only rims certified for 1000 kPa (10 bar = 145 psi) cold inflation
pressures are suitable for radial forklift tyre fitment.
Only industrial forklift tyres, normally marked NHS (nonhighway service), are
suitable for fitment to forklifts.
Truck tyres, even though they may have the same tyre size and ply rating,
must not be fitted.
Example:
10.00 - 20 14-ply truck tyre at 700 kPa (7.0 bar = 102 psi) is rated to carry a
load of 2575 kg per tyre in a dual fitment situation.
10.00 - 20 14-ply forklift tyre at 700 kPa, due to its heavier construction, is
rated to carry a load of 5640 kg per tyre in a dual fitment situation.
The sum of the load capacity of all the tyres fitted to a forklift must not be
less than the gross mass of the forklift (this includes the weight of the
forklift and its maximum rated load) at the maximum speed of which the
forklift is capable.
Most forklift manufacturers rate their forklifts, for stability and load-carry-
ing capacity on industrial cross-ply pneumatic tyres, industrial cushion or
resilient tyres. Before altering the tyre construction type, for example, cross-
ply to radial, the forklift manufacturer must be consulted, as this may affect
the stability or load-carrying capacity of the forklift.
Cushion solid (resilient) tyres can be fitted to all forklift rims. Irreparable
damage can be caused to rims and tyres if correct tyre to rim fitment
techniques are not adhered to. Proper pressing equipment is required to
ensure damage-free fitment of tyre to rim.
When replacing worn or damaged forklift rims, ensure that the replacement
rim is designed to carry the load and pressure of the tyre. Never add or
remove an attachment from, or otherwise modify, a forklift rim. Never weld
a cracked rim. Never apply heat, weld or brazing to a rim, unless the tyre
has been removed, and approval has been received from the rim manufac-
turer. Modification or heating of a rim or one of its components may
weaken it so that it cannot withstand forces created by inflation or opera-
tion. Components of multi-piece rims wear during their service life. Do not
replace worn or damaged components with new ones and fit to a worn rim
base. Fitting new components onto an old rim base could cause DEATH or
INJURY because the new components may not lock in or seat properly. If in
any doubt, for safety’s sake, reject the rim.
Cushion solid (resilient) tyres have a 60J or safety line around the circum-
ference. This safety line signifies the maximum wear limits of the tyre.
Pneumatic tyres should be inspected daily for cuts, cracks and wear. If any
part of the tyre carcass is exposed, the tyre must be replaced immediately.
1 Before deflation, read and chalk the tyre pressure on the tyre wall.
Take special note of any tyre with 80% or less of recommended
pressure.
3 Don’t remove any tyre from a wheel rim unless you have removed
the valve core and are sure the tyre is fully deflated. Remove both
valve cores from a dual assembly.
3 Unseat both tyre beads using the correct hand tools or with pneu-
matic, hydraulic, or mechanical equipment. Be sure to follow the
instructions supplied.
4 Lubricate the rim flange and tyre bead areas, using an approved
tyre bead lubricant.
5 With the narrow rim ledge facing upwards, pry the top tyre bead
over the top rim flange, starting at the valve area. Be careful not
to damage the tyre beads by using excessive leverage.
1 Remove the valve core and completely deflate the tyre. This must
always be done before removing a wheel from a vehicle or removing
a tyre from a wheel. This applies to both tyres in a dual assembly.
Run a piece of wire through the valve stem to ensure it is not
plugged.
2 Lay the assembly on the ground with the lock ring assembly facing
upwards.
3 Unseat the top facing bead with the appropriate tools or equip-
ment. Follow the instructions supplied with equipment when using
pneumatic, hydraulic, or mechanical equipment to break the bead
seats.
4 Use only approved tyre bead lubricant to assist with the bead
breaking operation.
5 Be careful to use the correct levers and not to distort loose flanges
and lock rings when removing from the rim.
7 Turn the wheel assembly over and unseat the tyre bead.
1 Remove any water ballast or air from the tyre. Remove the valve
core and completely deflate the tyre. Lay the assembly on the floor
with the narrow ledge at the bottom.
3 With the narrow ledge on top, thoroughly lubricate the rim flange
and tyre bead area with an approved tyre lubricant or a thin
solution of vegetable oil soap in water. (Never use antifreeze,
silicones or petroleum-based lubricants.)
4 Force the part of the bead that is directly across from the valve
into the well. Starting at the valve, pry the top bead over the rim
flange using two 18-inch-long tyre levers or the tyre mounting/
demounting tool. Continue by taking small bites to avoid damage to
the bead until the top bead is completely over the rim flange.
8 Lubricate the second tyre bead and rim flange. Be sure the one
side of the bead still on the rim is in the rim well and insert the
tyre levers or the mounting demounting tool under the opposite
side of the bead.
9 Work the rim slowly out of the tyre by taking small bites alter-
nately using both tyre levers. Alternatively, use the mounting/
demounting tool to lift the bead over the flange.
1 Jack up the vehicle, then deflate the tyre by removing the valve
core housing. If necessary position the tyre for emptying any fluid
fill from the tyre. For tube-type tyres, remove the rim nut and push
the valve through the valve hole.
3 Thoroughly lubricate the tyre bead area and rim flange with an
approved tyre mounting lubricant or a thin solution of vegetable oil
soap in water. (Never use antifreeze, silicones or petroleum-base
lubricants because this will damage the tyre.)
4 Force the part of the bead that is directly across from the valve
into the well. Starting at the valve, pry the top bead over the rim
flange using two 18-inch long tyre levers or the tyre mounting/
demounting tool. Continue by taking small bites to avoid damage to
the bead until the top bead is completely over the rim flange.
5 Bring the assembly to an upright position and pull the tube out of
the tyre (if it is tubed). If only the tube requires repair or replace-
ment, this can be removed, repaired, and replaced in the tyre
without removing the tyre completely from the rim.
7 To completely remove the tyre from the rim, turn assembly over so
the narrow ledge is down.
8 Lubricate the second tyre bead and rim flange. Be sure the one
side of the bead still on the rim is in the rim well and insert the
tyre levers or the mounting demounting tool under the opposite
side of the bead.
9 Work the rim slowly out of the tyre by taking small bites alter-
nately using both tyre levers. Alternatively use the mounting/
demounting tool to lift the bead over the flange.
3 Clean and carefully examine all flanges, locking rims and rim
gutters. Reject any that are damaged, distorted, cracked or broken.
They must not be reused under any circumstances.
4 Don’t interchange rim parts. Although they may look alike, vari-
ance between rims of different types makes part-mixing dangerous.
Side rings, flanges and lock rings of different types may appear to
be correctly seated but actually have wide gaps which make them
dangerous. Check markings.
6 Check that the tyre is in sound condition, both inside and outside,
and be sure to use only the correct size and type of tube, flap,
flange and locking ring.
9 Before inflating, be sure that you know the correct pressure for the
size and ply rating of the tyre. Don’t guess.
An electrohydraulic
10 Use a cage guard, or if a cage guard is not available, use a suitable
restraining device.
semi-automatic tyre
changer to demount
and mount truck, bus,
11 Wear suitable eye protection before starting assembly. This is
important!
tractor and earth
moving equipment
tyres.
12 If you have any doubts about what to do, or about what you have
done, ask your supervisor, or check the appropriate manual or wall
chart before inflating.
The steel-belted radial truck tyre has a carcass which consists of one single
body ply. This ply is made up of steel wires or cables, each consisting of a
number of filaments wound to provide a flexible yet strong sidewall. Steel-
belted radial truck tyres, like other tyres, are designed to deflect within an
optimum range when loads, pressures and road surface variations are
imposed. When, however, a steel-belted radial truck tyre is run under-
inflated, the deflection is significantly increased, concentrating stress in one
particular area of the sidewall. This has the effect of causing the body ply
wires or cables in the sidewall to bend at angles far greater than they are
A tyre with a zippered side wall.
designed for, or capable of, and they begin to break.
KEY POINT
When a zipper forms, during inflation, the weakened sidewall will start to tear
at the point of weakness, and burst with a long narrow opening. Wire and
rubber shrapnel will leave the tear driven by escaping compressed air. When
the zipper occurs at higher pressures, whole tyre and wheel assemblies can
be thrown in any direction as the sidewall explodes.
A truck has been blown off its jack, and tyre servicemen blown across the
fitting bay. Injuries include penetration by wire shrapnel, deep into the arm of
one victim, and impact of thrown wheel assemblies with injuries requiring
hospital treatment. The zipper effect has already claimed the life of one tyre
worker in New Zealand.
• Most tyres were known to have been punctured or flat before the
unzipping occurred.
Inspection
Often, potential zipper tyres will exhibit clues which singly or together may
indicate that the tyre has been run under-inflated and potentially may
unzip. Inspect carefully for the following:
Deflating a Zipper
Should a tyre exhibit bulging, distortion, creaking or clicking noises, imme-
diately:
1 Stop inflation.
Do not attempt to remove the hose from the valve stem until fully deflated.
Not all radial truck tyres with potential to zipper exhibit any of the above
clues. Accordingly, all radial truck tyres should be treated as potential
zippers.
• Use a minimum 2-metre long hose with clip-on chuck and quick
release device at both ends.
Shaded areas are probable trajectories for wheel parts should tyres explode.
• Use the fold-down safety cage if one is fitted to the service vehicle.
4 If it is not practicable to pull off the road, park the vehicle as far
left as possible, and put out warning cones and triangles.
Tyre Sealants
Tyre sealants is the name for three groups of products.
When adding sealant to tyres, the tyre profile must be maintained, without
the weight of the vehicle being allowed to flatten the tyre. Failure to follow
this instruction may result in the tyre becoming damaged. Ensure when
using tyre sealants that you adhere strictly to manufacturers’ dosage in-
structions.
When using a tyre Tyres treated with on-road tyre sealant which lose air should have a repair
sealant, always follow done in accordance with NZS 5423:1996 Specification for repairing and
the manufacturer’s retreading car, truck and bus tyres or the LTSA Wheels and Tyres Rule.
instructions.
When adding sealant to vehicle tyres, the tyre profile must be maintained.
The supplier’s instructions must be strictly followed.
KEY POINT
Tyre sealants for off-road tyres are for use at low speed.
Some tyre sealants for temporary repairs contain propane. The first fill of
propane in most cases will put the concentration of propane in the tyre
above the upper explosive limit. Re-inflation with air may reduce the concen-
tration of propane to form an explosive mixture of air and propane in the
tyre. The tyre can then be compared with a bomb. An ignition source, such
as a reamer against steel wires in a radial tyre, may cause an explosion.
Temporary puncture
repair tyre sealants are Tyre sealants for temporary repairs which use latex are nonflammable.
blown from an aerosol
Tyre repairers should find out which tyre sealant was used for any tempo-
can.
rary repair.
KEY POINTS
Check to see whether this tyre has been treated with an aerosol can sealant.
WARNING
Always replace a tyre with another tyre of exactly the same bead diameter
designation and suffix letters. For example:
While it is possible to pass a 16-inch diameter tyre over the lip or flange of
a 16.1-inch diameter or 16.5-inch diameter rim, it cannot be inflated enough
to position itself against the rim flange. If an attempt is made to seat the
tyre bead by inflating, the tyre bead will break with explosive force and
could cause serious injury or death.
2 Check the tyre that came off the rim. Look on the rim for tyre size.
If you can’t read rim markings, check with the vehicle manufac-
turer or have a qualified person read the rim.
Measurement of rim 3 Rims for specialised applications require special tyres. The size
code of the rim must be checked for compatibility.
width and diameter.
1 With a suitable lamp, examine the tyre wall for any bulging due to
damage. Zippering walls may show signs of bulging. Reject any tyre
in which zippering is starting to occur. Turn down the workshop
radio and inflate the tyre, listening for popping noises which signal
ripping of cords in the tyre wall. Zippering is most likely in tyres
which have been run at low pressure. Ripping cords signal the start
of a zipper.
3 Remove the valve core and allow the tyre to deflate fully. Now,
place the tyre/wheel assembly into a safety cage or suitable re-
straining device, before inflating using a clip on chuck. Passenger
tyres fitted on passenger well-base rims may be inflated without a
safety cage.
4 Inflate to full pressure, standing away from the tyre, but still
listening for popping caused by zippering. Any zippering tyre shall
be rejected. After inflation, release the air pressure and allow the
tyre to deflate. You can now replace the valve core and inflate fully.
5 This is the stage where most accidents and the most serious inju-
ries occur. In every accident notified to OSH, the dead or injured
person has not correctly used a suitable cage guard or restraining
device. Be sure, by a thorough examination, that it is safe to pro-
ceed to full inflation.
ACCIDENT CASE
9 After running the vehicle for a short distance, wheel nuts should be
checked for tightness. Parts will seat naturally and torque on nuts
will drop, requiring them to be tightened to the correct specifica-
tions. This is essential; in the worst case the wheel will fall off.
1 Check that rim bead seats and flanges are in good condition and
not damaged or distorted.
3 Place the rim on the fitting machine or floor with the narrow rim
ledge facing upwards.
6 Position bottom tyre bead over top rim flange, working tyre bead
into the rim well.
8 Position top tyre bead over top rim flange, working tyre bead into
the rim well.
9 Before inflating, be sure of the correct pressure for the size and ply
rating of the tyre. Never exceed the maximum pressure shown on
page 56 of this booklet.
10 Inflate to 35 kPa (5 psi) only, then check that the tyre is properly
centred on the rim. Don’t check the seating of the bead by standing
over the wheel, but from one side.
11 In the case of larger tractor tyres, you should put the assembly into
a safety cage or other suitable restraining device. If a safety cage is
impracticable to use, for example in the middle of a paddock with a
large tractor tyre, it should be possible to inflate the tyre with a
vehicle between the tyre and the service person. If you don’t, and
ACCIDENT CASE
A mechanic was inflating a tractor tyre he had just fitted to the wheel
rim. He had difficulty getting the bead to seat against the rim and
asked an experienced workmate to help him. The tyre was marked
WARNING: NEVER EXCEED 35 PSI WHEN SEATING BEAD. As the man was
leaning over to examine it, the tube burst and the tyre was forced over
the rim, throwing him a metre in the air. He was struck by the rim and
died from his injuries. There was a suitable tyre cage metres away. The
pressure gauge fitted to the air line was not working and it was as-
sumed later that the tyre may have been inflated to a pressure of 80
psi.
1 Before you start, be sure that the flanges and locking rings are the
right size and are in good condition. Check for any damage, distor-
tion or cracks with the rim, flange or lockring. Discard damaged
components. In most cases don’t try to repair or modify them — it
could kill you or those using the vehicle. Wheel repair is a special-
ised skill and advice must be sought when there is a doubt.
2 If the rim is a 4-piece flat-base type, ensure that the inner flange
ring has been fitted.
3 Check that the inside of the tyre is clean from foreign matter.
4 Insert the inner tube and flap. Partially inflate the tube to conform
to the tyre shape. Check the tube has not creased or pinched.
Attach a valve retrieval tool to the valve stem and thread the tool
through the valve hole.
6 Place the rim on the ground with the lock ring side facing up-
wards. Mount the tyre over the rim locating the valve retrieval tool
stem through the rim valve hole.
7 Fit the flange and lock ring into the correct seating position. DO
NOT use excessive force to fit the lock ring.
9 Don’t stand over the wheel. Check the seating of the parts from the
side. Never attempt to correct the seating of the side and locking
rings by hammering, or by forcing the components while the tyre is
pressurised.
5 Starting opposite the valve, use tyre levers to lever the top bead
over the rim flange and down into the rim well. Be careful to avoid
pinching the tube with tyre levers. Locking pliers may be used to
keep your place. When the bead is well started, lubricate the
remaining unmounted portion of the tyre bead and rim flange.
Taking small bites, spoon the tyre bead over the rim flange until
the final section drops over at the valve.
6 Thoroughly lubricate the tyre bead area and rim bead seats on both
sides of the tyre.
Place tyre/rim/wheel
on a safety cage or
other restraining
10 Re-insert the valve core and re-inflate the tyre to the vehicle manu-
facturer’s recommended operating pressure. Remove from the
safety cage.
device.
1 Thoroughly lubricate the tyre bead area and rim flange with an
approved tyre mounting lubricant or a thin solution of vegetable oil
soap in water. (Never use antifreeze, silicones or petroleum-base
lubricants because this will damage the tyre.)
4 Relubricate the tyre beads and rim flange. In tube-type tyres the
tube should be partially inflated and base area that contacts the
rim should be lubricated to prevent localised stretching.
5 Starting at the top, use the tyre levers to lift the outer bead up and
over the rim flange. then down into the rim well. Be careful not to
pinch the tube in this operation.
6 After getting the first section of the outer bead into the rim well,
place one hand against that section to hold it and then pry the
remainder of the bead over the flange with the tyre lever in the
other hand.
7 With the valve stem at the bottom, lower the jack until the tyre is
centred on the rim. Centring of the tyre and rim assembly is
extremely important to prevent broken beads. Wear face protection.
Using an extension hose with an in-line air gauge and clip-on chuck
(with valve core removed), inflate the tyre to seat the beads. Do not
exceed 245 kPa (35 psi). It is essential for the operator to stand
clear of the tyre. Check to see that both beads are seated all the
way around the tyre. For tubeless tyres, mounting depends on how
well the shape of the tyre has been maintained. If the beads are in
or near their moulded position, they can be seated by inflating the
tyre, through the valve spud. Where the beads have been squeezed
together, the use of an inflator ring (either horizontally or verti-
cally) will be required to provide a seal between the tyre bead and
rim.
8 Raise the vehicle and rotate wheel assembly to have the valve at
the top. If the tyre is tube-type, completely deflate by removing the
valve core housing. Re-insert the valve core and re-inflate the tyre
to the recommended operating pressure.
The flat base rim is made in either two- or three-piece construction and is
designed for use with tube-type tyres. This is the rim commonly used on
medium and heavy trucks, trailers and buses.
Wide-base rim.
Wide-base rim.
Multi-Piece Rims
Multi-piece rim.
Multi-piece rim.
A multi-piece rim is any rim with two or more parts, one of which is a
locking ring that holds the inflated tyre on the rim by interlocking compo-
nents.
Divided Wheels
Divided wheels are those wheels in which the rim is in two halves which are
bolted together. They are most often fitted to barrows, trolleys, implements,
trucks or forklifts. However, there are some models of small Japanese cars
and trucks with divided wheel rims. Particular care must be taken not to
unfasten the rim clamping nuts while the tyre is still inflated. The clamping
nuts are generally painted red, but this may not always be so.
It is essential that every divided wheel has the tyre fully deflated and the valve
removed before being removed from the vehicle. This is to prevent any chance
of injury if the wrong nuts are undone.
Divided wheel.
A computerised off-the-
car electronic wheel
balancer. 4 Check the machine before starting and ensure that there are no
loose parts or tools on it.
7 Don’t allow anyone near the machine while the tyre/wheel assembly
is rotating.
3 Make sure people are clear of the areas in front of and behind the
vehicle.
ACCIDENT CASE
A retread tyre had been fitted on the rim and then inflated to 90 psi,
then placed on the outside of a dual wheel, which was rotating to
centre the rim and tyre. To centre the wheel, the fitter arranged for the
jacked wheel to be rotated under engine power to establish wheel
centrality.
While the person in the cab controlling the throttle kept indicated
speed to 80 kph, with one wheel stopped on the ground, and one
wheel turning under power, the turning wheel rotated at the equiva-
lent of 160 kph. Differential operation always means that with one
wheel stopped, while the other turns, the indicated speed will be one
half turning speed. The tyre zippered, with part of the rubber hitting the
fuel tank then the left side of the head and shoulder of the tyre fitter.
He was taken to hospital, where he died of injuries.
6 If the vehicle has a limited slip differential, keep both wheels off
the floor. Gradually accelerate to a maximum of 130 km/h (80
m.p.h.) on the speedometer, which is also 130 km/in (80 m.p.h.)
wheel speed.
2 Remove any stones or other loose material from the tread of the
tyre. It could fly out when the machine is started.
5 Secure the assembly to the wheel adapter plate while the weight is
still fully supported by the lifting frame.
9 Place the lock pin in position before attempting to loose any wheel
adapter nuts.
I t is best if tyre repairs are carried out in a fully equipped workshop but
there are times when they must be done at another work site or on the
roadside. It is very important never to take chances with safety in such
situations.
1 If the work site does not have a suitable cage guard or restraining
device, then one must be taken to the site or roadside. If a suitable
cage guard or restraining device are not available, then less safe
options are to place the wheel under the vehicle for inflation, or to
bolt the wheel in place on the vehicle before inflation.
2 Before you begin work, set up road marker cones round the road-
side work area.
3 Chock wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle before you place
the jack in position.
Always use road
marker cones and
wear a high-visibility
4 Regardless of how hard or firm the ground appears, put hardwood
blocks under the jack. Use axle stands where possible.
vest when carrying out
roadside repairs. 5 Always wear your eye protection and a high-visibility safety vest if
working on a roadside.
8 Be particularly careful to clean all dirt and rust from lock rings
and gutters, otherwise lock rings will not seat properly.
KEY POINT
Never inflate above the pressures recommended by the tyre and wheel rim
manufacturers. Maximum pressures may be stamped on the sidewalls of
truck and light truck tyres. In practice, the following maximum pressures
should not be exceeded:
For passenger vehicles, look in the manufacturer’s tyre digest, or check the
load and inflation chart.
Signage could simply say that: ‘Pressure available is limited to (275 - 420
kPa (40 - 60 psi)). If higher pressure is required, please refer to one of our
forecourt staff’. It could also refer the owner to the vehicle’s owner/driver
handbook for appropriate tyre pressures, or warn of pumping up tyres that
have been run flat for a period. The sign should be simple, however, if it is
to be read or comprehended.
Air pressure at free air
dispensers should be
kept to a safe limit.
1 All jacks must be checked for safe and efficient operation regularly.
3 If you are working on the front wheels, chock the rear wheels and
put the park brake on.
Car wheels and tyres are of strong construction have small internal air
volume and do not require high pressures. Car tyres pose minimal risk to
the serviceperson, and if correct fitting procedures are adhered to then
ruptures will not happen. Beware of divided wheels on small Japanese cars
— see page 00. However, car tyres should be inflated with the jaws of the
tyre fitting machine restraining the wheel.
A ir bags are found in many of the vehicles sold in New Zealand since 1993.
They vary from single driver’s side air bag to the multiple air bag systems.
As tyre fitters you must be aware of vehicles that have air bags fitted, to
avoid accidentally deploying them. Accidental deployment may:
• Cost your organisation a lot of money to replace the air bag and
associated mechanisms.
Most vehicle manufactures identify their air bag systems extremely well,
with dash warning lamps, and labels positioned in view of driver and pas-
sengers and engraved in the steering wheel and/or dash panel, as shown
below:
The owner’s handbook may also show that an air bag system is fitted.
Labels
Labels are situated at various locations on the vehicle to show that the
vehicle is equipped with Supplementary Restraint Systems (SRS) (air bags).
The following shows a sample of labels you may come across, indicating that
the car is equipped with SRS.
KEY POINT
Some vehicles with air bags may not be easily identified. There is an after-
market airbag system available in New Zealand. If you suspect a vehicle has
an air bag but are not, sure ask your supervisor.
However, providing you take some simple safety precautions, you should not
have too many problems with them.
KEY POINT
When working on a vehicle with an air bag, don’t assume you are safe just
because the battery is disconnected.
3 When working around the steering wheel and the areas of the
passenger’s side air bag (if the vehicle is fitted with dual air bags),
be aware of the air bag systems and keep your face away from the
air bag deployment range. Do not probe electrical wires as this
could discharge the air bag system and seatbelt pretensioners.
4 Do not remove the steering wheel without first asking for help and
advice.
KEY POINT
When working around an air bag system, remember that they are explosive
and they deploy at speeds ranging from 280 to 480 kph and develop ap-
proximately 360 bhp, all this within 10-12 thousandths of a second.
Then there are the problems for your employer, such as explanations to
customers, parts replacement costs, down time for business, and the worst
thing of all — personnel injury or even death.
FINALLY
• Take all proper safety precautions when working on a vehicle
equipped with air bags.
(b) Provide and maintain facilities for the safety and health of employ-
ees at work;
(e) Provide procedures to deal with emergencies that may arise while
employees are at work.
The law requires Employers have responsibilities with regard to significant hazards in the
mployers to take all workplace.
practicable steps to
ensure the safety of (a) Where practicable, the hazard must be eliminated.
employees while at
work (b) If elimination is not practicable, the hazard must be isolated.
Where the hazard has not been eliminated or isolated, employers must,
where appropriate:
4 Suitable tools and equipment are supplied for every particular job.
They must be of the correct type and in good condition. This
includes cage guards or other suitable restraining devices for tyre
inflation.
Simply supplying these items is not enough. Employers must also ensure
that they are used or worn. Don’t allow anyone who either works for you, or
who is on your premises, to take chances with safety.
If practicable, a waiting room where customers can stay away from the tyre
changing area should be provided.
When public access is unavoidable, tyre change workshop areas where car
tyres are fitted should be separate from areas where heavy vehicle tyres are
fitted.
Clearly identify area where injury may occur. For example, use yellow
painted lines on the workshop floor marking areas to stay clear of.
These areas where tyre changing and inflation occurs should be kept clean
and clear of all tools and debris that could possibly become hazardous and
cause injury.
Areas which should be employee only should have signage: No access unless
under the direct supervision of staff.
Under the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992, employees must
take all practicable steps to ensure their safety at work, and that no action
or inaction causes harm to any other person. Employees are also required to
use the protective clothing and equipment supplied for the job. Everyone
who installs or repairs tyres should follow these guidelines:
1 Don’t attempt any job unless you already know how to do it cor-
rectly and safely. Don’t bluff, or you may cause an accident. Ask
your supervisor for instructions — that’s what he or she is there
for.
By law, employees
must take all
2 Use only the correct tools, clothing and equipment for the job. If
gear is damaged, don’t use it. If in doubt, see your supervisor and
practicable steps to ask him or her to examine it, and to replace them if necessary.
ensure their safety at
work.
3 Safety laws oblige you to observe safe work methods. If you are
unsure, stop and ask.
4 Never take chances or let anyone else take chances with safety. In
particular, always wear your eye protection and always use tyre
cage guards or other suitable restraining devices when inflating
tyres removed from vehicles for any reason.
Puncture repair x x x x x
Car tyres x x x x x
Use of jacks x x x x x
Off-vehicle balancing x x x x
On-vehicle balancing x x x x
Divided rims x x x x x
Wide-base rims x x x
H.T. licence x x x
Compressor maintenance x x
Wheel alignment x x x
Tyre companies, some polytechnics, and the Motor Industry Training Or-
ganisation have training courses and training resources, including books and
videos. In the first instance, you should ask your tyre suppliers for training
aids.
I f you have any doubts or questions about safety, ask your supervisor first.
If this is not possible, or the matter is not properly dealt with, you should
approach either your firm’s safety officer or your union delegate. If there is
no safety officer or union delegate and you are still not satisfied that the job
is safe, then contact a factory inspector at your nearest Occupational Safety
and Health Service (OSH) office. Employers who have any questions con-
cerning safety or safety legislation should also contact their nearest OSH
office.
OSH has responsibility for safety in the manufacture, fitting, repair, and
storage of tyres in places of work.
Guidance on the handling, storage and transport of airbags and seat belt
pretensioners, HSE Books, 1998
A guide to the handling and storage of airbags and seat belt pretensioners at
garages and motor vehicle repair workshops, HSE Books, 1998
Tyres, wheels and rim assemblies: Safe removal, assembly and inflation,
Tasmania Department of Labour and Industry, 1986
Assembling truck and tractor tyres and rims, WorkCover Authority of New
South Wales, (leaflet, illus.), 1991
NZS 5464: 1990 Pneumatic tyres - Light truck and truck/bus - New (=AS
2230-1990)
Aspect Ratio
This is the ratio between the tyre section
width and the height of the sidewall.
Early tyre designs had an aspect ratio of
100%, which means that the section
height and width are equal.
With modern cars capable of much higher speeds, the tyre manufacturers
have now designed tyres with decreased aspect ratios to complement the
increased performance of vehicles. Today’s modern sports cars are now
fitted with 50%, 45%, 40%, or even 35% aspect ratios.
Asymmetric Patterns
An asymmetric tread pattern generally consists of dissimilar tread pattern
elements placed radially opposite each other in order to optimise pattern
characteristics.
Bead
That part of a pneumatic tyre which fits and holds the tyre securely onto
the wheel rim. It consists of a coil of high-tensile steel wire, treated to give
good adhesion with rubber, and encased in a “matrix” of hard rubber.
Chafer
A strip of rubberised cross-woven fabric fitted around the part of the tyre
bead which comes into contact with the rim.
Clinch
The area of the sidewall of a pneumatic tyre immediately above the rim
flange where severe stress occurs in service.
Compound
Natural or synthetic rubber, or a blend of both, treated with various chemi-
cals and other materials to give specific properties required for various
commercial rubber products.
Deflection
The degree to which the section of an inflated tyre distorts or deflects
under load. The ratio of the loaded section height to the unloaded section
height of a tyre, expressed as a percentage.
Directional Tread
A tread formed with “Chevron” grooves used on tyres providing good trac-
tion combined with self cleaning properties. Tyres with directional treads
must be fitted with the point of the chevron pointing in the direction of
travel, otherwise traction will be lost.
D.O.T.
Department of Transportation (USA) tyre safety standards. The letters
appear on the sidewall of passenger tyres manufactured in America or for
the American market.
Flap
A circular strip of rubber or fabric-reinforced rubber used in pneumatic
Footprint
The ground contact area of a tyre tread.
Inner Liner
The air retaining part of a tubeless tyre. It is an integral part of the tyre
and consists of a sheet of special rubber compound fitted to the underside
of the first (inside) casing ply.
Load Index
A numerical system of marking tyres to indicate their load-carrying limits.
The load index is related to ply rating.
Load range
The term “Load Range”, and its designating letter, is used to identify a
given tyre size with its load and inflation limits when used for a specific
type of service, as defined in the TRA tables. Load ranges are normally
only used on tyres of USA or Canadian manufacture. (A = 2PR, B = 4PR,
C = 6PR etc.)
Maximum Load
Maximum carrying capacity of the tyre when run at maximum inflation
pressure, at a given speed.
Millimetre Tyres
Tyres marked with the section width in millimetres, and the rim diameter in
inches, e.g. 165 R 13.
Non-directional Tread
A general-purpose tread pattern designed so that the tyre can be run in
either direction without loss of traction or self-cleaning properties.
Plies
Sheets of rubber-coated textile or steel wire cords from which the casing of
a tyre is constructed. A single ply consists of a sheet of cord fabric or steel
in which the cords run parallel to one another and are insulated from each
other by a layer of resilient rubber compound.
Ply Rating
The term “ply rating” is now used to identify a given tyre with its maximum
recommended load for its specific job. It is an index of tyre strength and
does not necessarily represent the number of actual plies. The ply rating
system is being discontinued in favour of load indices.
Rim Width
The section of a wheel on which the beads of a pneumatic tyre are fitted.
Rim Flange
The shoulders of the rim of a wheel which fit against the face of the bead
and which hold the tyre on the rim.
Tread
The wearing surface of the tyre, i.e. that part of the tyre which makes
contact with the road.
Tube
The tube or “inner tube” is part of a tyre assembly and holds the air under
pressure.
Wheel Offset
Distance from the rim centreline to the inner (hub contact) face of the
wheel disk, measured in millimetres. A wheel with a positive offset will have
the centreline inboard of the contact face, whereas a wheel with negative
offset will have the wheel centreline outboard of the contact face.