Cadillac V-63 1923 Operator's Manual page 26

GENERAL CARE 45
TIRES
Each tire maker publishes a booklet with instructions for care and repair
of tires. Every motorist should provide himself with one of these and
thoroughly familiarize himself with the contents. We give here suggestions
that apply to pneumatic tires in general.
Probably 75% of so-called "tire trouble" is the result of misuse. We
give here some suggestions regarding the more important points of the care
of tires.
Result of Under-Inflation
Under-inflation causes a tire to flatten out under load. This causes the
side walls to bend sharply as the tire revolves. The result is the breaking
of the side walls. An under-inflated tire is susceptible to bruise, broken
cords and blow-out.
Result of Improperly Aligned Front Wheels
Running a car with the front wheels out of alignment causes rapid tread
wear. This usually affects both tires similarly, although sometimes only
one tire is affected. An incorrect adjustment of the front axle parallel rod
or a bent steering arm is responsible for the condition. Unless the wheels
are in proper alignment the treads of the front tires will wear away in a
remarkably short time.
Neglect of Small Cuts
If cuts extending to the cords are neglected deterioration and
blistering of the tire tread is the result. It is unnecessary to remove a tire
to treat small cuts of this nature. Tire companies furnish a plastic com-
pound for filling cuts. This prevents moisture and dirt from getting in. If
a cut is large, it should be vulcanized at once.
Result of Improperly Adjusted Tire Chains
Tires are sometimes badly damaged through the use of tire chains which
are incorrectly adjusted or which are fastened to the spokes of the wheel
holding the chains tightly in place.
The least injury results when chains are applied loosely leaving play
enough to permit them to work around. The wear on the tire is thus dis-
tributed evenly. Probably the greatest amount of injury comes from using
chains unnecessarily on paved streets.
Result of Sudden Application of the Brakes
The sudden application of the brakes resulting in sliding the wheels
causes the treads to wear away in spots. A tire will give away very rapidly
under this severe treatment.