How to Clean and Store Your Light Truck Tires
How to Clean and Store Your Light Truck Tires
Keeping your light truck tires in top shape is essential for safe driving and maximizing their lifespan. This includes proper cleaning and storage during seasonal changes. Here's a guide to ensure your tires are ready to hit the road when you need them:
Cleaning Your Light Truck Tires:
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Gather your supplies: You'll need warm water, a mild dish soap, a stiff bristle brush, and a rag for drying.
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Rinse and Scrub: Give your tires a thorough rinse to remove loose dirt and debris. Then, using the soapy water and brush, scrub the entire surface of the tire, removing any built-up grime, road tar, or brake dust. Pay particular attention to the tread grooves.
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Rinse and Dry: Once you've scrubbed the entire tire, rinse away all the soap and suds with clean water. Finally, use a clean rag to dry the tires completely. Moisture left behind can promote mildew or rot.
Storing Your Light Truck Tires:
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Location, Location, Location: An ideal storage spot is cool, dry, and out of direct sunlight. A climate-controlled basement or garage is perfect. If that's not available, a shaded area in your garage or shed will work too. Avoid attics, which can get extremely hot, and areas with fluctuating temperatures.
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Standing Tall or Lying Flat? You can store your tires with or without the wheels attached. If storing them on the wheels, maintain the recommended air pressure. For loose tires, you can stack them lying flat, but avoid placing anything heavy on top.
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Protect from the Elements: If storing loose tires, consider using airtight plastic bags like heavy-duty lawn and leaf bags. This will help prevent moisture and oil evaporation. Ensure the tires are completely dry before bagging them. Alternatively, you can invest in dedicated tire storage bags or totes.
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Mind Your Surroundings: Keep your tires away from sources of ozone, such as electric motors, generators, and transformers. Ozone can degrade the rubber over time.
Bonus Tips:
1) Before storing your tires, mark their location on the vehicle (front left, rear right, etc.) for proper rotation during the next tire change.
2) While tire shine products might make your tires look shiny, they can actually cause more harm than good. Some of these products contain chemicals that can soften and degrade the rubber over time, leading to premature cracking. Additionally, the silicone-based formula can create a slippery surface, which might reduce traction – a crucial safety concern. There are better options available, like water-based tire dressings, that provide a natural sheen without harming the rubber or compromising grip.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure your light truck tires are clean, protected, and ready to deliver optimal performance whenever you need them.
