Tyre handling and storage guidelines

Tyre selection

Select your tyres based on the vehicle manufacturer specifications or recommendations. The tyre size selection is typically based on required axle loads and configurations, as well as a vehicle’s maximum speed capability. Fit the tyres on the recommended rims, as defined by the tyre manufacturer and/or ETRTO (European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation) standards.

We recommend using tyres of the same construction type (radial or bias) in all positions. Tread patterns may vary by axle. Dual mounted tyres should have the same dimensions and construction type.

Tyre storage

Store tyres in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight or strong artificial light. Tyres should never be stored on oily floors or otherwise come into contact with oil, grease or volatile solvents. If possible, tyres should be stored vertically on treads. Horizontally stacked unmounted tyres should be piled symmetrically and never so high as to cause severe distortion to the bottom tyre.

Mounting

Tyre mounting and demounting should be carried out by authorised personnel using the proper tools and procedures. An incorrectly mounted tyre will not deliver optimum performance. Rims should be inspected prior to the tyre fitting to ensure that they are rust-free and undamaged, without any signs of wear and tear. Specifically, the rim flange areas should be inspected thoroughly. New valve caps should be used to protect valve parts from dust, dirt and humidity and thus avoid air losses. Only use vegetable oil-based, self evaporating lubricants – or dedicated tyre mounting lubricants.

Inflation pressure

Incorrect inflation pressure can cause damage to the tyre. Truck and bus tyres should be inflated according to the inflation pressures indicated in the tyre manufacturer's recommendations. Tyre inflation pressures should be checked on a bi-weekly basis. Always check inflation pressures on cold tyres. The pressures indicated in the load inflation tables always relate to "cold" inflations at the indicated axle loads. Under-inflation will not only generate irregular treadwear patterns, but can also lead to premature tyre failure.

Tread depth

All EU countries require a minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm in the central three quarters of the tread area for the entire circumference of the tyre. All Goodyear Dunlop truck and bus tyres are equipped with TWIs (tread wear indicators) in the main grooves of the tread pattern; these are located at a height of 1.6 mm from the groove bottom.