Re: [A/S] Cracks in tires

[Jim Norman <hddecker@xxxxxxx>]

I would like to suggest that much of the problem with side wall cracking 
comes from parking on concrete or soil/turf. I recall looking at several 
old cars sitting in yards or on driveways and the cracking  always 
seemed to start at the bottom and work it's way up the sidewall. That 
was on of the reasons the old timers would put their cars up on blocks 
when they were storing them for extended periods of time.

During a discussion with the service manager at my Harley dealer, the 
topic of tire rot came up. It was suggested that when storing the bike, 
it be elevated (on a motorcycle lift) and the air pressure be reduced to 
about 1/2 the normal inflation. I have carried this concept over to the 
Airstream, when putting it into storage, I jack the unit up and put jack 
stands under the frame. Then reduce the air pressure in the tires and 
provide the UV protection suggested by Blue.

Spending allot of time on two wheels heightens the importance of the 
rubber that is contacting the road under you. Tire care is one of the 
most important preventative maintenance items and probably the most 
neglected.

regards...
Jim