Tire dates

[Davdeb1]

I'm going to look at a 96 safari, just wanted to know what the code was for tire date of manufacture.

[RVRon]

It's a four digit number on the sidewall...first 2 digits indicate year, second two; week of manufacture. I'm sure I've seen pictures in other threads here....do a search of tire dates.

*** Read my correction below....got this one backwards***

[wendyjeff]

Originally Posted by RVRon

It's a four digit number on the sidewall...first 2 digits indicate year, second two; week of manufacture. I'm sure I've seen pictures in other threads here....do a search of tire dates.

It will have DOT in fron t of them also.

[RVRon]

Actually I got it backwards (thinking too quickly I guess). The correct answer is first 2 digits are the week of manufacture, second two the year. Sorry

[Mochisme]

But there are tires still out there with only three numbers which idcates the tire was made prior to 2000. Ask me how I know....

My four number tires to replace the three numbered ones on my MH arrive tomorrow!!

[Davdeb1]

Thanks for the help, I was hoping they were on the outside, not the inside of the tire, it's got 42k on it , I am sure the tires have been replaced once at least.

[Mochisme]

Originally Posted by Davdeb1

Thanks for the help, I was hoping they were on the outside, not the inside of the tire, it's got 42k on it , I am sure the tires have been replaced once at least.

Don't bet the farm on them being replaced, my 11 year old MH still had the OEM tires on it and the big time nationwide dealer ship I bought from did not say a word to me, it was reading here at IRV2 that turned me on to Tire Ageing issues. Know what is on the MH before you purchase and use that info to make your deal a better one rather then a after purchase expense you did not expect.

[edgray]

Originally Posted by Davdeb1

Thanks for the help, I was hoping they were on the outside, not the inside of the tire, it's got 42k on it , I am sure the tires have been replaced once at least.

Dave: the date code is the last 3 OR 4 digits on the line that begins with "DOT". Most tires have this line item molded on only one side however, there is nothing about the tire mounting process that assures which side of the tire will be inside, or outside. Can you imagine the frustration an owner may experience if the date codes are facing each other on the rear duals? I've had owners swear their tires do not have date codes on them because of this. Good luck reading yours!
Ed

[Mr_D]

Originally Posted by edgray

Dave: the date code is the last 3 OR 4 digits on the line that begins with "DOT". Most tires have this line item molded on only one side however, there is nothing about the tire mounting process that assures which side of the tire will be inside, or outside. Can you imagine the frustration an owner may experience if the date codes are facing each other on the rear duals? I've had owners swear their tires do not have date codes on them because of this. Good luck reading yours!
Ed

Isn't it strange that the tires get mounted so you can't see the codes!! I had six new tires mounted last year and the date codes are all the the inside. Luckily I looked at them before they were mounted on the rig.

[edgray]

Originally Posted by Mr_D

Isn't it strange that the tires get mounted so you can't see the codes!! I had six new tires mounted last year and the date codes are all the the inside. Luckily I looked at them before they were mounted on the rig.

Yes, one might think it was deliberate, but I doubt the guy mounting the tire onto the rim even gives this problem a thought!

[mmcl26554]

The spare tire on my HR Imperial 33 foot with tag axle is original the date code is 1992, the same the MH was manufactured. The tire has lived in an enclosed compartment on the back of the MH. It looks perfect and has 55 pounds of air (I usually run 70 pounds). Can I use it as an outside tire on my duals so I can keep an eye on it? Other tires were manufactured in 2007 and all of them except the inner duals have some weather checking. Three of the tires may need to be replaced as my tire dealer thinks they are bad enough to be replaced, I think he is a little conservative but I am going to do it. But what about using the spare? Should I or not?
Michael

[edgray]

You don't say what size, I'm guessing either 16 or perhaps 19.5" ( not the most expensive size by far )...... but regardless, I cannot recommend you begin to use an almost 20 year old tire for every day service. The cost savings from attempting this "every day" use of that old tire just isn't worth the risk, IMO.

I suggest you air it up to the max PSI shown on the sidewall and LEAVE it as your "protected" spare. Buying 4 NEW tires that match would give you peace of mind you just won't have with that "oldie but goodie" on the ground. Safe travels!
Ed

[mmcl26554]

235/85-16 Sorry I neglected to state the size. Also the spare has never been on the ground even still has the mold nipples on it.

edgray, your advice is well taken, thanks.