Specialty Tires

Introduction:

Many tires sold today are classified as all-season tires. These tires have a 37 percent higher average snow traction compared to non-all-season tires. All-season tires may have slightly improved performance in areas such as wet traction, rolling resistance, tread life, and air retention.

 

Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) and 4 x 4 Tires

 

SUV tires may be classified for use on pavement or off-road. SUV tires have greater load-carrying capacity compared to passenger car tires, because of the extra loads that may be carried in an SUV. A typical pavement SUV tire has these features:

1. A silica tread compound that provides low noise levels and exceptional wet braking capability.

2. An enhanced casing system and a stable tire contact area that supplies even tread wear and responsive handling quality.

3. Larger cables in the steel belts to provide increased strength and durability.

4. Full-depth, interlocking sections in the tread that supply excellent wet and snow traction.

 

Tires designed for 4 × 4 vehicles may have some of the same features as SUV tires. A typical 4 × 4 tire has these additional features:      

1. Two wide circumference grooves with a stepped profile to reduce hydroplaning.

2. Staggered shoulder blocks in the tread to improve lateral grip on slopes.

3. Gradual profile changes in the shoulder area of the tread to provide progressive breakaway during hard cornering.

4. Additional rubber at the base of the tread to reduce the possibility of tire damage.

 

Puncture sealing tires are available as an option on certain car lines, and some rubber companies sell these tires in the replacement tire market.

• These tires contain a special rubber sealing compound applied under the tread area during the manufacturing process.

• When a nail or other object up to 3/16 inch in diameter punctures the tread area, it picks up a coating of sealant. If the object is removed, the sealant sticks to the object and is pulled into the puncture.

• This sealant completely fills the puncture and forms a permanent seal to maintain tire inflation pressure.

• Puncture sealing tires usually have a special warranty. These tires can be serviced with conventional tire changing and balancing equipment.

 

• Mud and snow tires are available in various ply and belt designs.

• These tires provide increased traction in snow or mud compared to conventional tires.

Mud and snow tires are identified with an MS suffix after the tire performance criteria (TPC) number on the tire sidewall.