Tire Terminology And Definitions - Chevrolet 2009 Impala Owner's Manual

(C) Aspect Ratio A two-digit number that
:
indicates the tire height-to-width measurements.
For example, if the tire size aspect ratio is 60, as
shown in item C of the illustration, it would mean
that the tire's sidewall is 60 percent as high as
it is wide.
(D) Construction Code
indicate the type of ply construction in the tire. The
letter R means radial ply construction; the letter D
means diagonal or bias ply construction; and the
letter B means belted-bias ply construction.
(E) Rim Diameter Diameter of the wheel in
:
inches.
(F) Service Description
represent the load index and speed rating of the
tire. The load index represents the load carry
capacity a tire is certified to carry. The speed
rating is the maximum speed a tire is certified to
carry a load.
A letter code is used to
:
These characters
:
Tire Terminology and Definitions
Air Pressure The amount of air inside the tire
:
pressing outward on each square inch of the tire.
Air pressure is expressed in pounds per square
inch (psi) or kilopascal (kPa).
Accessory Weight This means the combined
:
weight of optional accessories. Some examples of
optional accessories are, automatic transmission,
power steering, power brakes, power windows,
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.
5-57