Are there cracks in the inside of the tire?
Clearly, there are some cracks in the outside sidewall but not on the inside one. Also some tires that were used were cracked more on the sidewall than one that was stored for many years as spares (no side cracks on that one, but quite a few in main the longitudinal grooves). Some cracked ones were only out in the sun for 3 or 4 years.
When do tyre cracks necessitate a replacement?
The forces on the tire between treads is not as large as the sidewall. Cracks in the sidewall are distressing, because they can lead to catastrophic failure of the tire. What you’ve got there is dry-rot. Those cracks aren’t bad, but you probably want to start planning for a replacement set in the next half year or so.
How are tire cracks related to the strain axis?
Tires have a protective coating which dissolves with time, ozone, and UV light. Fun fact, tire cracks are roughly orthogonal to the strain axis, so examining the cracks can give you an idea of how forces in the tire work and also which are most problematic.
Are there cracks in the side of Michelin tires?
Also some tires that were used were cracked more on the sidewall than one that was stored for many years as spares (no side cracks on that one, but quite a few in main the longitudinal grooves). Some cracked ones were only out in the sun for 3 or 4 years. Maybe the Michelin is particularly prone to this kinda cracking?
When to worry about cracks in your tires?
Tires take a serious beating—constant “stretching” as they roll along the road, exposure to harsh chemicals (gasoline, oil, acid, etc.), UV rays and heat. That rubber is suffering so that you can travel! Almost all tires will begin to exhibit small cracks in the sidewall after a short period of time. Is it time to worry?
How can you tell if your tire sidewall is cracking?
Cracks on the tire sidewall. Brittle, dry rubber. Minor flaking or peeling. Cracks appearing on your sidewall are a telltale warning of early-stage dry rot. You may see a few in one area, or they may have fully surrounded your hubcap.
Why are there cracks in my camper tire?
Long periods of “sitting” causes the rubber to dry out, and when you take your camper out for a drive, the rubber “splits” as it gets worked on the road. Again, this is nothing to worry about unless the cracks are exceptionally deep.
Tires have a protective coating which dissolves with time, ozone, and UV light. Fun fact, tire cracks are roughly orthogonal to the strain axis, so examining the cracks can give you an idea of how forces in the tire work and also which are most problematic.