Ford 2003 Explorer Owner's Manual page 256

The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on
straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include
acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning or peak traction characteristics.
Temperature A B C
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C, representing the
tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire
to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to
sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance
which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle
Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of
performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by
law.
The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that
is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed,
underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in
combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.
SERVICING YOUR TIRES
Checking the tire pressure
• Use an accurate tire gauge.
• Check the pressure when the tires are cold, after the vehicle has been
parked for at least one hour or has been driven less than 5 km (3
miles).
• Adjust tire pressure to recommended specifications found on the
Certifications Label.
• Check tires for proper air pressure monthly. Check spare tire for
proper air pressure every six months.
Check that the externally mounted spare tire is tight. To verify that the
spare tire is tight, turn the lug wrench clockwise until the tire winch
"overrides". (Note: the wrench will get harder to turn until the winch
"overrides". When this happens, you will hear a click and the wrench will
turn easier. This will happen repeatedly as the wrench is turned
clockwise.)
2003 Explorer (exp)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA English (fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
255