Checking tires for cracks

[HUGHP]

How do you check the inside duallys for cracks? Am I to assume they are fine if the outside tires don't show cracks?

[Dogpatch]

Typically that's where the cracking shows due to UV damage. Covering your tires reduces this element in hot dry climates. Although, I'm told under inflation can also cause cracking. If you see cracking, it's advisable to have them all checked!

[Solask]

Originally Posted by HUGHP

How do you check the inside duallys for cracks? Am I to assume they are fine if the outside tires don;'t show cracks?

Hugh, I do this using a good flashlight and a dental mirror. I crawl around until I'm confident I have seen enough of the sidewall.


Rod

[Czar Of Poop]

HughP


Check to see the DateCodes on the outter Dually's. Usually the inner dually's are about the same AGE. If they are 7yrs. or older and you are worried and you can afford it......go tire shopping.

[TdogKing]

I just replaced my Tires with no cracking shown on the outside ( garage stored) and the inside facing tires were cracked really bad. I was shocked and glad I caught it.

[cmccallum]

I would advise checking the insides too --- we just went in yesterday to replace our outside duallies and it turned out one of the inside tires had pretty severe sidewall cracking and damage. Really happy to have found this as the outsides were not cracked too badly and we almost didn't have them replaced. Would not have been good during our upcoming 21-day trip!

Be safe!

[deandec]

I get down on a flattened cardboard box with a good flashlight and look closely at all three interior sides of the dually tires.

Support the rig with something other than hydraulic jacks while your head and shoulders are under there.

[flynnwalter]

HUGHP
I started looking to replace all 6 OEM Goodyears after 5 yrs (from the earliest DOT date code) with less than 16k miles on them--made me want to cry. They looked great on the outside. Don't assume, look at date code of every tire. Michelin requires their tires to be removed from wheels (dismounted) and the interior inspected annually after (I think) five years by a dealer in order to maintain their warranty thru 10 yrs? Its not worth all that hassle and expense (for me) and I am not rich--in fact I am cheap. Just not worth the safety of my loved ones and/or innocent fellow travelers. Its something I can do to put the odds in my favor.