RQRA 7th Edition

Truck tyre magazine

bridgestone Assist

New mobile service to keep you on the road

Tube vs Tubeless

The advantages of switching to tubeless tyres

Issue 7 january 2012

real QUESTIONS real ANSWERS Bridgestone Middle East & Africa FZE P.O. BOX 16813, Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai UAE www.bridgestone-mea • www.bsolution-mea.com

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14 Truck Tyre magazine

CONTENTS Breakdown Safety

brIdgesTOne assIsT

new mobile service to keep you on the road

Tube vs Tubeless

The advantages of switching to tubeless tyres

4

Precautions in the event of a breakdown

Issue 7 january 2012

real QuesTIOns real ansWers Bridgestone middle east & africa Fze P.O. BOX 16813, Jebel ali Free zone, Dubai uae www.bridgestone-mea • www.bsolution-mea.com

real QUESTIONS real ANSWERS Bridgestone Middle East & Africa FZE P.O. Box 16813, Jebel Ali Free Zone Dubai, UAE For correspondence with this publication please write to us through our postal address or by email to realanswers@bridgestone.ae An electronic version of this publication is available at www.bridgestone-mea.com and www.bsolution-mea.com

Bridgestone Assist

6

New mobile service to keep you on the road

Tube vs Tubeless

10

The advantages of switching to tubeless tyres

Truck and Bus Rims

14

Learn more about how a vehicle’s rims connect you to the road

Pump Ring or Booster Nicholas Publishing International FZ-LLC

P.O. Box 500573, Office 704 Executive Heights, Dubai, UAE Tel: +9714 4243600 Fax: +9714 4327505 For editorial enquiries, contact Rob Nicholas, Publisher rob.nicholas@npimedia.com Tel: +9714 4243600

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JANUARY 2012 real QUESTIONS real ANSWERS

20

Safety procedures for air sealing while inflating your tyres

Wheel Alignment Get it right to avoid irregular wear and tyres will last longer

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10

06

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FOREWORD Bridgestone is the leading manufacturer of tyres and we always try to provide our customers with so much more than the best product in the market – Real Answers is an example of this.

Service and sharing knowledge is a key part of what we provide to our customers and partners. As a brand, we also pride ourselves on safety and we want our customers to know the best actions to take in case of an emergency, what equipment they need to have on hand to make sure they are prepared and don’t create a danger to themselves or other road users. Please see our article on page 4.

Like any industry, there is specific knowledge that a fleet manager needs to know to do his job effectively. When it comes to tyres, we provide the Real Answers. From understanding the services offered by Bridgestone Assist – the mobile tyre service (see page 6) to the benefits of one type of product over another, such as the article in this issue on Tube vs. Tubeless tyres (see page 10).

If you have any questions that you would like to be answered, we are always prepared and happy to help.

Simply drop us an email to realanswers@bridgestone.ae

Matsuyama Kenji General Manager – Commercial Tyre Marketing & Training.

Bridgestone Middle East & Africa FZE real questions real answers january 2012

3

BRIDGESTONE

4

january 2012 real questions real answers

| safety

BRIDGESTONE

| safety

Safety comes first in the event of a breakdown

Breakdowns are something almost every driver will experience at some point.

The longer you spend behind the wheel, the greater the chances of it happening.

Unfortunately, many drivers are injured or killed while either working on their vehicles or waiting for assistance on highways.

What should you do in the event of a breakdown?

Your safety and the safety of a co-driver or passenger should always be your first concern if your vehicle breaks down. Getting out of your vehicle at a busy intersection or on a highway hard shoulder to change a tyre or make a repair is probably one of the most dangerous things you can do. If your vehicle does breakdown, road safety experts recommend using the following precautions: • Avoid getting out of the vehicle to make a repair on a busy highway. Get the vehicle to a safe place before getting out.

Try and stop your vehicle as far off the road as possible.

• If still functional, immediately turn on the hazard lights of your vehicle. At night it is also advisable to leave the cabin light on.

• Use neon flares or triangles to mark your location once you are on the side of the road. Marking your vehicle's location provides advance warning to other drivers. Place the triangles as far away from the truck or bus as possible; remember that an approaching vehicle travailing at 120 kilometres per hour covers over 30 metres per second. If the beacons are placed 100 metres away it only gives another motorist about three seconds to reach your vehicle.

When

you are outside of your vehicle on • the highway, make yourself visible. If you don't have a reflective vest, put on the

•

•

lightest colour piece of clothing available and carry a flashlight at night.

In the case of a flat tyre or blowout, move the vehicle to a safer place before attempting to fit the spare wheel, even if it means destroying the wheel getting there.

The cost of a tyre, rim or wheel is minor compared to endangering your life.

Call for breakdown / roadside assistance if required and inform the Police and Emergency Services in the case that an accident caused the breakdown.

What useful items can I keep in my vehicle in case of a breakdown or an emergency?

It is a good idea to have some or all of the following items in your vehicle in case of an emergency or breakdown situation: jumper cables, water, batteries, flashlight, neon flares, a basic toolkit, coolant and a first aid kit. A wellmaintained vehicle is less likely to break down, so always keep your truck/bus in the best condition possible by sticking to regular service intervals.

When can I use the hard shoulder?

There are only three instances where stopping on the hard shoulder is permitted: • In a breakdown • In an emergency • If told to stop by the police Is it ever acceptable to drive on the hard shoulder?

Drivers should only ever drive on the hard shoulder when slowing down to stop, either for the police or in an emergency or breakdown situation. You may use the hard shoulder when gaining speed to re-join the carriageway.

What should I do if I breakdown on a road with no hard shoulder?

Stop your vehicle as far away from moving traffic as possible and switch on the hazard warning lights. Only leave the vehicle when it is safe to do so, preferably by the door on the opposite side of moving traffic.

Call for help using your mobile phone.

Should I stop to retrieve something that fell off my vehicle?

When driving on a highway or busy road, never stop on the hard shoulder to retrieve parts or other obstructive items that may have fallen from your vehicle while driving. Instead, stop when it is safe to do so and telephone the police to inform them of the location and any possible danger.

What should I do while waiting for breakdown assistance help to arrive?

It is dangerous to wait inside the vehicle if you are stopped alongside a busy highway. You are at risk of being hit from the rear at high speed by passing motorists. If possible, get out of the vehicle using the passenger door.

Remember that anybody or anything on the hard shoulder has a very high risk of being struck by passing traffic.

Wait for help on the verge, away from the parked vehicle. If your vehicle is safely out of traffic, wait inside with the doors locked. Use your mobile phone to call for help. Remember, during a breakdown your safety and those around you should be your number one priority.

real questions real answers january 2012

5

BRIDGESTONE

| bridgestone assist

Bridgestone Assist: Mobile and ready to serve Repair, wheel alignment and balancing – anywhere, anytime

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january 2012 real questions real answers

BRIDGESTONE

| bridgestone assist

What is Bridgestone Assist?

Bridgestone Assist is a mobile, on-call, breakdown service What are your daily activities?

We are really busy from morning to evening and myself and my working partner get called out three to four times each day by customers with various tyre problems.

What is the most common problem you are called for?

Truck punctures are by far the most common and account for nearly all of the call-outs we receive.

What are the main causes for tyre damage that you are called out to repair?

The most common cause of the damage is incorrect use of air pressure and not rotating and aligning the tyres. These are the three problems that cause the most wear and damage to the tyre.

When you are informed of a puncture, what steps do you take?

Once we arrive on the scene, we will need to make a tyre change. But before we even get there, we try to understand the problem so we can arrive fully prepared. If there is a puncture, we will speak to the customer and identify the exact type of tyre, so if a replacement is needed it can be brought with us and we are able to tackle the job in the shortest amount of time possible.

How long does it take you to change a tyre by the road side?

A single tyre usually takes 15-20 minutes.

In cases where the vehicle is in a position or location where it would be dangerous to replace the tyre at the roadside, we fit a spare tyre and move from the main road in order to fit the new tyre, if that is what’s required.

Often this is done before we even arrive.

In most cases we encounter a single tyre puncture, but we do sometimes get a dual puncture affecting two tyres.

Fact File Name: Mohin Abbas Chandly Time working with Bridgestone distributor: 4 years Time working with Bridgestone Assist: 1 year Team size: Work in a team of two when on the road, serving customers Training: At Bridgestone Training Centre in Jebel Ali and worked for four years with general tyre repair as well as working with the van for the last one year. Specialized training for the Assist van took around 15 days

real questions real answers january 2012

7

BRIDGESTONE

Where are you called out to most? Do punctures mainly occur on the main highway?

In Dubai, the truck road is the place we are called to most frequently, which is the main highway between Jebel Ali and Abu Dhabi.

Besides this area, Jebel Ali Industrial Area is also a popular call out location as it is a centre for industry and truck transportation is very common. Construction, chemical, concrete (ready-mix) companies are all located there.

Are most of your customers already using Bridgestone?

Most of my customers are existing Bridgestone clients already using our tyres.

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january 2012 real questions real answers

| bridgestone assist

Can assist provide all the services of a truck tyre centre?

We have a lot of advanced technology available within the van and we can also bring additional equipment with us, depending on the customers’ needs and requirements.

Our standard equipment that is always in the van allows us to check air pressure, evaluate the tyre condition, identify if rotation is needed or any other service.

We can even carry out computerized alignment and balancing.

Some customers are regular and always get their tyres from us, so every 15 days I visit the fleet and do a survey, checking the tyre pressures and condition of the tyres.

If rotation, alignment or balancing are needed we do it there and then. This is the type of service our customers value and ensures that they keep coming back to Bridgestone.

Apart from roadside repairs, what other work do you do?

We are often called by the customer to go to them to service or replace tyres. Many of our customers prefer to do the work in their own depots rather than coming to a tyre centre for their repairs, replacement or maintenance. They want to keep the truck in service rather than using unnecessary time – of the vehicle and the driver – as well as fuel to come to and from one of the dedicated truck tyre centres.

BRIDGESTONE

We can service the tyres on location quickly and efficiently and the customer prefers this solution. We check the tyre condition and can prepare a report on what is needed. It is then up to the management of the fleet to decide on the next steps and we are ready to help them.

What equipment do you have on assist?

We have all of the following: Two hydraulic jacks: These help us to lift the vehicle quickly and efficiently.

Impact wrench: We use this to loosen the wheel bolts. These can sometimes get fused into position so a normal wrench would not be sufficient.

| bridgestone assist

Tyre changer and compressor: This is what we need to change the tyre and fill it with air.

Electrical generator: This is what powers the compressor and the tyre changing machine.

Tyre safety cage: We place the wheel in the cage before inflating the tyre to recommended pressures. This keeps us safe in case of any incident as we use the compressor, which is very powerful.

Wheel alignment machine: This includes very advanced technology that enables precision laser alignment.

Wheel balancing machine: This is one of the final procedures after we have replaced the tyres to ensure they are

all balanced and work in harmony.

Of course, we also have onboard all the tools that are needed to open and fix the tyre.

What makes Bridgestone Assist the best?

First and foremost, we give our customers the very best product and support this with proper and professional work. There are other repair services but nobody has the same level of facilities and equipment that we have in the van. Even simple things like the tyre mounting paste are important.

Some support services are not using the correct substance – trying to do this with oil for instance – which can damage the tyre.

real questions real answers january 2012

9

BRIDGESTONE

| TUBE VERSUS TUBELESS

If "less is more", isn't it time you switched to tubeless tyres?

TUBE TYPE TYRE Heavier Uses more fuel Fast puncture Less stable More heat Difficult to mount Difficult to balance

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JANUARY 2012 real QUESTIONS real ANSWERS

BRIDGESTONE

| TUBE VERSUS TUBELESS

TUBELESS TYRE Lighter Uses less fuel Slow puncture More stable Less heat Easy to mount Easy to balance

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TUBE TYPE AND TUBELESS TYRES? Tubeless tyres, as the name suggests, are tyres without an inner tube. The tyre is built in such a way that it can contain the air by itself. The tyre and rim assembly form an air container, to “seal” and “contain” the

compressed air inside the assembly. The tyre has a special compound on its inner liner, which is airtight. Together with the airtight joint between the tyre and the wheel, the membrane forms a container that holds the air for the tyre. Though compounds used in a tubeless or a tube type tyre may

vary, the other major difference lies in the bead area of the tyre that forms the seal between the rim and tyre. A tube type tyre is the traditional, older type technology that was prevalent before tubeless tyres were introduced. Tube type tyres use separate inner tubes in order to be inflated.

real QUESTIONS real ANSWERS JANUARY 2012

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BRIDGESTONE

WHAT ARE THE MAIN BENEFITS OF SHIFTING FROM TUBE TO TUBELESS TYRES? Tubeless tyres offer many benefits over tube type tyres with hardly any drawbacks, which is why they have become standard issue as original equipment (OE) in cars throughout most of the world. According to industry experts there has been a steady rise in the demand for tubeless tyres in recent years. In a nutshell tubeless tyres are safer, use much fewer components to be installed and will save money on fuel economy compared to tube type tyres.

HOW LONG HAVE TUBELESS TYRES BEEN AROUND? Tubeless tyres have been around a lot longer than most people might think. In 1903, P.W. Litchfield patented the first tubeless tyre, however it was never commercially exploited until 1954. By the end of the decade, tubeless tyres were commonplace on most production cars. Tubeless tyres for heavy vehicles like trucks and busses are a much more recent invention, but are gaining popularity throughout the world.

| TUBE VERSUS TUBELESS

TUBE TYRE

TUBELESS TYRE

1200R20

IS THE AMOUNT OF HEAT GENERATED THE SAME BETWEEN TUBE AND TUBELESS TYRES? No, tubeless tyres generate significantly less heat than tube type tyres. Due to the friction between the inner tube and tyre, a lot more heat is generated. In addition, the difference in aspect ratio means that for a tyre with the same outer diameter, the

315/80R22.5

inner diameter is bigger. This means a slightly larger inside rim, which allows for better ventilation and cooling.

Less heat generation means less possibility of heat related tyre damages.

For truck tyres, this concern has been greatly reduced in recent years primarily because of the changes from tube type to tubeless tyres.

ARE THERE COST SAVINGS? A tubeless tyre is lighter than the tube type tyre. The weight saving on each tyre, plus the reduced rolling resistance, means that the vehicle will achieve better fuel economy when running with tubeless tyres. In addition, weight savings will also come from the wheels and rims, which have far fewer components on a tubeless tyre assembly. Some laboratory results have shown up to two percent fuel savings when running on tubeless tyres compared to tube type tyres.

Fewer components also mean less spare part inventory, which will lower running costs.

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JANUARY 2012 real QUESTIONS real ANSWERS

Tube Type Tyre

Tubeless Tyre

Wheel Rim

Tube Type Tyre

Tube

Flap

Wheel Disc

Tubeless Tyre

Side Ring

Side Ring

BRIDGESTONE

Tube Type Tyre

| TUBE VERSUS TUBELESS

Does a tubeless tyre offer better stability and are they easier to balance?

Yes, tubeless tyres offer better stability. The main reason for this is the lower aspect ratio (sidewall height divided by tyre section width) meaning a tubeless tyre will offer much better stability than a tube type tyre.

A smaller aspect ratio means a lower sidewall height combined with more rigid radial tyre construction so that tubeless tyres offer much better road holding capabilities and handling when negotiating bends at higher speeds.

The one piece rim used on tubeless tyres make wheel balancing easier, since it has fewer parts and components and is also lighter.

Can tubeless tyres be repaired?

Yes, tubeless tyres can be repaired very easily using the same method of repair as tube tyres. (Please refer to RQRA Issues no. 4 & 6 for explanation of proper repair of tyres) Is the mounting (fitting) procedure different?

Mounting tubeless tyres is much easier than tube type tyres as you have to mount the tyre only on a one piece rim.

But in the case of tube tyres you have to assemble the tube and flap inside the tyre first then mount them on rim consisting of several pieces.

Cleaning the rim is critical because the tyre depends on the rim for its air seal. Make sure the inside of the tyre is clean and dry.

If tyres have been stored outdoors, any water must be removed. The valve stem must also be inspected to ensure it is tight in the rim.

Tubeless Tyre

Which type of tyre performs better when punctured?

A tubeless tyre will definitely be the safer option in the event of a puncture.

A tubeless tyre will leak air at a much slower rate than a tyre with a tube. The inner lining of the tyre will attempt to form a seal around the penetrating object which will normally result in a slow leak.

In contrast when the inner tube of a wheel is punctured, air will escape much faster since there is no sealing effect. The risk of experiencing a blowout or running flat is much higher with a tube type tyre than with a tubeless tyre, since the inner tube might pop like a balloon if punctured.

When sudden loss of air occurs during a blowout the vehicle will lose traction and will be thrown off balance which could result in a serious or fatal accident.

real questions real answers january 2012

13

BRIDGESTONE

| truck and bus rims

Wheel rims The entire wheel is as important as the tyres you select. Learn more about how a vehicle’s rims connect you to the road

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january 2012 real questions real answers

What is a rim?

The rim is the outer circular part of the wheel, normally made from steel for trucks and buses. It is the part of the wheel that seals against the tyre.

What is the purpose of a rim?

The main purpose of the rim is to provide a smooth, clean surface that will allow the tyre to fit seamlessly onto the wheel. With tubeless tyres the rims have an additional function of providing an airtight seal between the rim and tyre. The rim is the link between the tyre and hub/spokes. Together they form a functioning wheel.

real questions real answers january 2012

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BRIDGESTONE

IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A RIM AND A WHEEL? Yes, there is a difference – the rim is a component of the wheel. When it comes to heavy vehicles such as trucks and buses there are basically two types of wheels: disc wheels and cast spoke wheels. For cars and other light vehicles, wheels are also made from a single piece of casted aluminium or even carbon fibre. These types of wheels are much lighter than steel but unfortunately they are not robust and strong enough to be used on heavy vehicles.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN DISC WHEELS AND CAST SPOKE WHEELS? To form a disc wheel, we need two components: a disc and a rim. The disc

| TRUCK AND BUS RIMS

and rim are welded together to form a single piece. Disc wheels also have two variants – a single piece disc wheel suitable for tubeless tyres; and a multipiece rim which contains a removable side ring to enable a tube type tyre to be fitted. (see images below) To form a cast spoke wheel we need detachable rims and a hub and spoke assembly. The hub and spoke is secured to the rim using bolts and cleats. Detachable rims can come in one single continuous piece suitable for tubeless tyres and also in multi piece format made up from three segments. The multi segment rim will only be suitable for a tube type tyre since it will not be able to form an airtight seal. (see images below)

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 2 AND 3 PIECE SIDE RING ASSEMBLIES? In 2-piece assembly, the side ring retains the tyre on one side of the rim. The fixed flange supports the other side. The split side ring is designed so that it acts as a self-contained locking ring as well as a flange. In 3-piece assemblies, the flange supports the tire on one side of the rim. The flange is, in turn, held in place by a separate split lock ring. Please remember that both of these types of locking rings are only suitable for tube type tyres.

CAN I FIT A TUBELESS TYRE ON A TUBE TYPE RIM? No, definitely not. Tube type rims are not designed to be airtight – they are designed completely differently and the

DISC WHEEL

Disc

Rim

Disc Wheel

Hub & Spokes

Cast Spoke Wheel

CAST SPOKE WHEEL

Detachable Rims

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JANUARY 2012 real QUESTIONS real ANSWERS

BRIDGESTONE

| truck and bus rims

when does the rim width matter in relation to tyre size?

It is important to ensure that a tyre is fitted on the recommended rim width. The specifications for a tyre can be found on the tyre standards – if necessary, ask the manufacturer for clarification – while the rim width is displayed on the rim itself (see left). For example, a 295/80R22.5 tyre can be fitted on a rim width of either 9.00 or 8.25 inches.

Rim width measurement

Tyre size 295/80R22.5

Rim width

Recommended rim width Approved rim width 9.00 inches

8.25 inches

seating area (the area where the tyre touches and seals against the rim) is formed at different angles.

Fitting a tube type tyre on a tubeless rim will also not work for the same reason.

Tyres and rims are carefully designed to work together and it is important that the correct tyre type and size is fitted to the corresponding type of rim.

What do all the different numbers on a tyre or rim mean?

There are usually many different numbers printed on the inside of a rim. Some of them are serial numbers and date of manufacture. The size of the rim is usually represented by two sets of numbers either side of an “X” as per the picture (see left). The numbers give the rim diameter and width measured in inches. The example rim opposite has a diameter of 22.5 inches and a rim width of 9 inches.

Tyre sizes are specified in a similar way. The tyre size mentioned in the table opposite is 295/80R22.5. The first number in the size gives the width of the tyre in millimetres, while the second number is the height of the tyre sidewall as a percentage of the width. This is also known as the aspect ratio and the last number following the “R”, meaning radial construction method, is the required rim diameter for the specific tyre. This is measured in inches.

What are the main causes for rim damage?

Rims can be damaged in several ways, most of which can be prevented by ensuring that your truck and bus is properly maintained. Some of the most common damage can occur when driving with loose wheel nuts or when wheel nuts have been excessively tightened, improper use of mounting tools when changing tyres, using oversized tyres, improper inflation pressure and overloading the vehicle.

real questions real answers january 2012

17

BRIDGESTONE

Damage can also occur as a result of an accident or hitting a solid object in or at the side of the road such as a concrete kerbstone. Always stop at a safe designated area to inspect your tyres and rims in the event that you have driven over something that could have damaged a tyre or rim.

How important is wheel balancing?

Wheel balancing is very important.

If wheels are left unbalanced, excessive vibration, in time, can work wheel

| truck and bus rims

nuts loose, which in turn could cause damage to the rim. To ensure a smooth comfortable ride, wheel balancing is very important.

What can i do to make sure my vehicle rims stay in good condition?

Rim and wheel maintenance is an important aspect of keeping your vehicle well serviced. It is recommended by industry experts that the following should be done as a minimum requirement.

• Periodically inspect the rim and disc

– at the very least during tyre replacement. There should not be any cracks or deformation visible on the rim.

• Make sure that there is no rust, dirt, lubricant or rubber on the inside of the rim, especially the seating area.

• Make sure that all wheel nuts are tightened to the torque setting of the manufacturer. Remember over tightening can be just as dangerous as loose bolts.

• For your own safety, never attempt to repair a damaged rim.

are there different shapes of nuts?

Yes, there are different shapes of nuts. However, there are three common shapes – Flat, Conical and Spherical. Depending on the type of your wheel, you must use the corresponding shape nut to tighten the wheel on the axle hub to ensure safe and effective centering.

The diagram below illustrates the correct type of nut according to the application.

Flat Shape SINGLE

dual

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january 2012 real questions real answers

Spherical Shape

Conical Shape

BRIDGESTONE

| truck and bus rims

Use a safety cage when inflating a tyre and wheel assembly

Is there a specific order for tightening wheel nuts?

Yes, the nuts should be tightened in diagonal order. If there are 10 holes then the nuts should be tightened in the following order shown left.

However, if there are eight holes then they should be tightened in the order shown right.

Where can I find information on the different sizes of rims?

All reputable tyre manufactures will have a chart or table showing the allowable rim sizes to be used with their different models of tyres.

Main sizes

Approves Rim Width

7.50R15TR *

6.0, 6.5, B6.5

9R17.5 *

6.00, 6.75

285/70R19.5

7.50, 8.25, 9.00

6.0, 6.5, B6.5, 6.5T, 7.0

9.5R17.5

6.00, 6.75

305/70R19.5

8.25, 9.00

7.0, 7.5, 7.5VM, 8.0

10R17.5

6.75, 7.50

265/60R22.5

7.50, 8.25

9R22.5

6.00, 6.75

285/60R22.5

8.25, 9.00

10R22.5

6.75, 7.50

11R22.5

7.50, 8.25

295/60R22.5

9.00, 9.75

12R22.5

8.25, 9.00

315/60R22.5

9.00, 9.75

8.25R15TR * 10.00R15TR * 7.50R18 7.00R20 8.25R20

6.00S, 6.50T 5.00, 5.5, 6.0 5.5, 6.0, 6.00T, 6.5, 7.0

Main sizes

Approves Rim Width

Main sizes

Approves Rim Width

9.00R20

6.0, 6.00T, 6.5, 7.0, 7.33V, 7.5

13R22.5

9.00, 9.75

385/65R22.5

11.75, 12.25

1000R20

6.5, 7.0, 7.33V, 7.5, 8.0, 8.0V

11R24.5 *

7.50, 8.25

425/65R22.5

12.25, 13.00, 14.00

1100R20

7.33V, 7.5, 8.0, 8.0V, 8.5, 8.5V, 9.00V

215/70R17.5 **

6.00, 6.75

445/65R22.5

13.00, 14.00

245/70R17.5

6.75, 7.50

235/70R22.5 **

6.75, 7.50

265/70R17.5

6.75, 7.50

8.5, 8.5V, 9.0, 9.00V

255/70R22.5

6.75, 7.50, 8.25

215/75R17.5

6.00, 6.75

1300R20

9.00V, 10.00W

235/75R17.5

6.75, 7.50

275/70R22.5

7.50, 8.25

1400R20

9.00, 10.0, 10.00V, 10.00W

225/80R17.5 **

6.00, 6.75

305/70R22.5

8.25, 9.00

10.0, 10.00V, 10.00W

225/90R17.5 **

6.00, 6.75

315/70R22.5

9.00, 9.75

445/65R19.5

13.00, 14.00

295/75R22.5

8.25, 9.00

6.00, 6.00RW, 6.75, 6.75RW

275/80R22.5

7.50, 8.25

1200R20

365/80R20

7.33V, 7.5, 8.0, 8.0V,

11.00R22

7.50, 8.0, 8.5

11.00R24

7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 8.5VM

12.00R24

7.33V, 7.5, 8.0, 8.0V, 8.5, 8.5V,9.0, 9.00V

225/70R19.5 *

245/70R19.5

6.75, 7.50

295/80R22.5

8.25, 9.00

265/70R19.5

6.75, 7.50

315/80R22.5

9.00, 9.75

- All the above approved rim width are based on ETRTO, except * TRA ** JATMA Rim width numbers shown in bold are the recommended width.

real questions real answers january 2012

19

BRIDGESTONE

| Pump Ring or Booster

Pump Ring or Booster Thomas Triller, area manager for REMA TIP TOP, explains the safety procedures for air sealing while inflating your tyres

Pump Ring

20

january 2012 real questions real answers

BRIDGESTONE

| Pump Ring or Booster

the bead outside, and make it touch the rim. The bead seals the gap and the tyre is inflated at the same time. The beauty of the concept lies in its simplicity and its universal application.

However, the booster tool is technically more sophisticated than a pump ring.

The valves must be cleaned and serviced properly. Dirt, dust or sand can negatively affect its functioning. A booster should always be replaced, depending on usage, after a maximum of 10 years. It is, after all, a 45 litre high-pressure air tank!

In addition to the common safety precautions, the booster should never be used without wearing ear-plugs and safety glasses. In addition, the stand should be safe and the air tank properly held as kick-back can occur.

Booster

In the last 20 years, the development of wheels and tyres has focused on high performance and increased wheel diameter with a low profile. This has largely been the result of improved racing technology.

In the commercial vehicle sector, higher payloads and lower platforms – hence higher shipping volumes per vehicle – need wider tyres with lower profiles. The so-called Super Singles can even replace twin tyres.

As a result, changing and inflating these tyres is much more challenging than with older 90 series tyres. The huge gap between bead and hump, due to their width, is difficult to close while inflating. After successfully fitting the tyre, it often does not maintain air pressure while inflating.

Pump rings The most logical and safest way to inflate a tubeless tyre is to press a rubber ring between the rim edge and the sidewall to fill the gap through which the air finds its way. The air escapes between the bead

and the hump/rim but stays in the space formed by the sidewall, pump ring and rim.

With increasing air pressure, the rubber ring slides slowly upwards and can be removed as soon as the bead is in its final position. Please note, however, that although the use of the pump ring is intrinsically safe, all necessary precautions against tyre explosions must be taken.

This method has one disadvantage – a different ring is needed for each rim size. In addition, the rubber must be in good condition. Wrong handling can prematurely wear the rubber and spoil its effectiveness. Ideally, a spare rubber ring should be kept in a drawer.

Booster A far more universal tool for tubeless tyre inflation is the “booster”. The idea is to fill the above-mentioned gap between bead and rim without a mechanical device, by pressing a certain volume of air into the tyre fast enough to expand the tyre, move

Conclusion The booster is the more versatile tool for quick inflation, but has the disadvantage of being more delicate. Properly used and stored in clean surroundings it is the preferable choice. In a dirty, sandy or hot environment the pump ring is the more convenient and safer solution. It is the superior tool for tyre shops working with only a few different rim sizes, but should be used properly in order to extend its lifetime.

Remember: whatever the preferred method, all necessary safety precautions against tyre explosions must be taken.

REMA TIP TOP is the market leader in automotive consumables and equipment, from balance weights to workshop tools.

For more information on Fitment and other REMA TIP TOP products, go to www.rema-tiptop.com

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BRIDGESTONE

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january 2012 real questions real answers

| wheel alignment

BRIDGESTONE

| wheel alignment

Wheel alignment Get it right to avoid irregular wear and tyres will last longer. Get it wrong and you risk affecting the performance and safety of your vehicle

What is wheel alignment?

Wheel alignment consists of adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the road surface. When this is done correctly, the tyres will perform well and wear patterns will be regular, ensuring the best road holding and handling capabilities for your vehicle.

What are the effects if wheel alignment is not done correctly?

When the wheels are not aligned, tyre wear will be faster, irregular and the driver may notice lesser fuel efficiency, handling problems and the tyres will have a shorter lifespan – resulting in uneven wear combined with heat buildup due to excessive friction with the road surface caused by severe misalignment could also cause tyre blowouts in some extreme cases.

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BRIDGESTONE

Can you explain the different wheel alignment terminology and definitions?

When we talk about wheel alignment issues you will often hear the words “camber”, “caster” and “toe” mentioned.

These relate to the angle of the wheels/ tyres measured against fixed points.

They need to be set up correctly to ensure good and even tyre wear and road safety.

Camber is the angle of the wheel from the true vertical to the center line of the wheel.

Standing in front of the vehicle, if the top of the wheel is tilted (leaning) outwards then the camber is positive and if it's tilted in, then the camber is negative. If the camber is out of adjustment, it will cause premature tyre wear on one side of the tyre's tread.

When the camber is out of adjustment it can also cause the vehicle to pull to one side. This usually happens when the

What is Axle Parallelism and how does it relate to Wheel Alignment?

Closely related to wheel alignment, Axle Parallelism only comes into play when dealing with articulated vehicles with multiple axles. Improper Axle Parallelism will have much of the same negative effects on tyre wear and road safety as wheel alignment will have. Proper Axle Parallelism aims to have all axles perpendicular to the center line of the chassis and all axles parallel to each other.

Typically there are three sets of axles on an articulated vehicle – they are the Steer Axle, Drive Axle and Trailer Axle. When one or more of these axle sets are not parallel or perpendicular to the chassis, this will cause excessive and uneven wear to tyres and also give the driver the sensation that the vehicle is pulling to one side.

Axle Parallelism problems can be corrected and is usually caused by one or more of the following: uneven axle springs, broken leaf spring, worn springs, broken U-bolt, bent frame, adjustment of torque rods or worn torque rod bushings.

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january 2012 real questions real answers

| wheel alignment

+ve

-ve

Camber

vehicle has been involved in an accident which has caused structural damage to the suspension. Camber also goes out of adjustment when the springs sag and causes ride height to change, or when ball joints and or other attached parts are worn or defective. Camber also varies depending on the load that the vehicle is carrying.

Caster is the angle of the steering pivot from true vertical to the steering axis.

Viewed from the side, the caster is the tilt

of the steering axis. When the wheel is in front of the load the caster is positive.

Toe is the most critical alignment setting of a vehicle relative to tyre wear.

The toe angle identifies the direction of the tyres compared to the centerline of the vehicle. Increased toe-in will reduce “oversteer”, steady the vehicle and enhance high-speed stability. Increased toe-out will reduce “understeer”, free up the vehicle, especially during initial turn-in while entering a corner.

Toe Angle

axle parallelism

Parallel Axles

Unparallel Axles

Unparallel axles results in irregular wear Direction of Motion

Direction of tyres rotation

Thrust Angle

BRIDGESTONE

How can you detect any problems with wheel alignment?

The condition of the tyres will highlight problems over time, but by then it can often be too late. The tyres will have become worn or damaged and may need to be replaced. Inspect tyres regularly and look for signs of uneven wear.

Drivers must be aware of any changes in vehicle handling and check wheel alignment if they notice any of the performance characteristics mentioned above.

How often does wheel alignment need to be checked?

Whenever new tyres are installed, suspension components installed, when the vehicle has encountered a major road hazard or curb and any time unusual tyre wear appear. As a precautionary measure tyres should be checked for uneven wear prior to each trip. As a minimum requirement alignment should be checked at least once every 12 months on commercial vehicles according to most experts.

| wheel alignment

What is the check procedure for wheel alignment?

An alignment technician/mechanic shall ask the driver of the vehicle if they experience any problems with the handling of the vehicle and take on board any comments.

Worn or damaged mechanical components can cause tyre wear or impact the vehicles handling. Wherever possible the technician will attempt to identify if any components are damaged or worn, and will recommend replacement or repair prior to adjusting the steering/axle geometry. Possible issues could be incorrect tyre pressures, track rod condition, worn ball joints, worn wheel bearings, worn steering gear,

damaged suspensions, worn or seized kingpins and possible chassis issues.

The technician will fix and locate all relevant alignment checking equipment to the appropriate positions on the wheels and chassis of the vehicle.

Measurements are taken and compared with the manufacture specification for the specific vehicle make and model.

Appropriate adjustments to the steering box timing, steering wheel alignment, track rod ends, drag links, etc. are made and measurements are taken again until all are within specified limits of the manufacturer.

Following this, the technician will take the final readings and complete a technical report.

What tools and equipment are required?

The vehicle is placed on a specially designed rig with purpose built computerised measuring sensors. The mechanical part of the rig allows the wheels to spin and rotate freely. Sensors are attached to each wheel and chassis in the appropriate mounting positions, the computer compares this to a database of manufacturer specifications for the year, make and model of the vehicle. If wheel alignment is off, an adjustment is made and the vehicle is tested again until it meets specifications.

Other than the wheel alignment measuring equipment, the workshop should also contain a full range of standard small tools like spanners, sockets, wrenches, hammers, mallets, pliers and screw drivers to fasten and loosen all relevant bolts, nuts, screws and clips.

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