| Q. |
Should
I reuse my old inner tube? It still holds air. |
|
A.
|
NO.
A new tube should be used when
installing a new tire. Tubes grow in service, taking a
permanent set of about 25% larger than original size.
This makes a used tube too large to use in a new tire, which
could cause a wrinkle and lead to tube failure. |
|
|
| Q. |
Can
a tube be used with a tubeless tire ? |
| A. |
When
used in accordance with the Tire and Rim Association's recommendations
and all other applicable standards, tubeless tires may be operated
with tubes approved for the appropriate tire sizes and applications
on tube-type wheels. |
|
|
| Q. |
What
does the red mark in the bead area of the tire mean ? |
| A. |
The
red dot or triangle indicates the circumferential location of
the light spot on the tire. This mark should be aligned with
the valve stem or the tube balance mark when mounting the tire. |
|
|
| Q. |
What
is the purpose of the concentric markings on the lower sidewall
of the tire ? |
| A. |
These
are the tire vent markings which allow for normal diffusion
of air or nitrogen through the tire's sidewall. Green dots indicate
tubeless tires, while white dots indicate tube-type tires. This
venting prevents pressure build-up in the cord body. Permissible
pressure drop due to diffusion is 5% in any 24 hour period.
The amount of diffusion through the vent holes will vary. |
|
|
| Q. |
What
is meant by tire growth ? |
| A. |
All
aircraft tires of nylon construction undergo a certain amount
of stretch after the tire has first been inflated to operating
pressure. A 10% pressure loss after initial inflation is normal,
however, once this has occurred, inflation should be adjusted
to the correct pressure. |
|
|
| Q. |
Is
there a standard age limit or "shelf life" for aircraft
tires? |
| A. |
NO.
The shelf life of a tire is entirely dependent on the storage
conditions. Proper storage of tires includes keeping them away
from fluorescent lighting or other bright light, electrical
motors, oil or chemicals, and sharp objects. Even with optimal
storage conditions, a thorough tire inspection prior to installation
is recommended. |
