OPERATOR'S MANUAL

Preventive Maintenance Tires and Wheels
Model 330 PB1318 3/01 – 173 –
Tire Inspection and Replacement
Visually inspect your tires frequently for any abnormal condi-
tions such as scrapes, bulges, and uneven wear. This must
be done immediately after known or suspected contact with
an object in the road, with a pothole, road irregularity or after
severe braking. Refer these conditions to an Authorized Tire
Service Center for repair or replacement. Never drive on a
tire if such conditions appear.
If the tire looks underinflated, stand off to the side and check
for damage to the wheel assembly. This can be done by visu-
ally comparing the wheel in question to other wheels on the
vehicle. For dual wheel assemblies, check between the
wheels for damage. If any damage is found, or you suspect
damage, do not attempt further repair. Call for expert tire ser-
vice.
Tire Inflation and Loading
Low pressure is a tire’s worst enemy. Underinflation allows
tires to flex improperly, causing high temperatures to build up.
Heat causes early tire damage such as flex break, radial
cracks, and ply separation. And low pressure may affect con-
trol of your vehicle, especially at the front wheels.
WARNING! Do not operate vehicle with underin-
flated tires. The extra heat caused by underinfla-
tion can cause sudden tire failure such as a tire
fire or blow out. Low pressure may affect control
at the front wheels, which could result in an acci-
dent and serious injury. Keep your tires inflated
to the manufacturer’s recommended air pres-
sure.
Tire Inflation
Most tire wear problems are caused by underinflation as the
result of slow leaks. So you will want to check tire pressure
regularly. Give the tires a visual test every day, and check
inflation with a gauge every week.
When checking tire pressure, inspect each tire for damage to
sidewalls, cuts, cracks, uneven wear, rocks between dual
wheels (tires), etc. If a tire appears underinflated, check for