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Prague, March 29, 2022 - Spring is here. Have you given your tires the proper care at the start of the agricultural season? We can advise you on what you can do to ensure they serve you well year-round and don’t pose a risk to your machinery or continuity of work. It is nothing difficult, and just a little regular care will give you a rich return in the form of reliable tire operation.

Where to start

It is important to think about the spring before the winter, in particular if you have machines that will be stored in a garage for several months. Ideally, these machines would be raised and stored so their wheels do not touch the ground, yet this is not feasible in the majority of cases and so we recommend increasing the pressure in the tires to the permitted maximum before they are parked for long periods. During the winter you should also check that the pressure in the tires is not falling. Prolonged parking on underinflated (or completely deflated) tires can cause flat spots on the tires. Subsequently, when the tire is reinflated and the machine put back into use, these flat spots can cause vibration, noise and wheel wobble. In short, uncomfortable operation.

The tire and its memory

Yes, it is true. A tire has a “memory” and retains its shape from the position in which it was left stationary for a long time. If there is a flat spot on a tire, a short (around 60-minute) drive at minimum inflation pressure for the given vehicle can help, as it will heat up the carcass, restoring its elasticity and correcting the flat spot.

Before you head out in the spring

The absolute first thing that needs doing before the first drive is a check of the correct pressure in the tires. When doing so, you should take into account the conditions where the machine will be used and adjust the inflation pressure accordingly. You can also use the Mitas mobile app to assess the correct pressure for different loads and speeds. Just remember that the pressure in the tires is also affected by the outside temperature, and so you need to check it regularly (ideally daily).

 

You should also perform a thorough visual check of your tires, including the sidewalls and the tread. This will help you uncover defects like bulges or cracks on the sidewall or uneven tread wear. If you see a problem, consult your Mitas tire dealer. You should also remove any small objects stuck in the tread.

 

Also check such trifles as the valve cap. The valve is a sensitive part, and if the cap is missing even a small impact can cause pressure loss and thus underinflation, making the tire prone to damage.

 

Don’t forget the rims

You should also perform a quick visual control of the rims, especially where the tire bead is seated. Focus primarily on visible evidence of impacts. The bead area is the most vulnerable part of the tire, and the part that keeps it on the rim, and even small stones getting lodged in it can cause pressure loss.

The bottom line is that proper (yet still taking only a few minutes) care for your tires should be a daily ritual. In return you will benefit from long tire working life and retention of their valuable properties.