Need advice on 22.5" truck tires and potential for dry rot.

[sixdogs]

I have an older Ford 600 truck that I replaced the widowmaker wheels with 22.5 inch tubeless. The front steering are 9R-22.5 and in good shape.

For the rears, it's easier to find 235-80-22.5 radials and they are very close to the same size as the 9R-22.5.

The question is, how old is too old when it comes to used tires? If they look good --crack wise--should I presume they are good? I found some that are 11 years old--Michelins--and they look great but is that too old for a used tire? Is there an age when cracking starts to appear?

Any advice appreciated.

 

[SLHawkins]

The trouble with tires is you can never tell by looking at them. Sometimes, the trouble starts from the inside or is the integrity of the rubber itself. Are the tires 'hard' or are they still relatively flexible? Used tires are always a crapshoot. I bought a good looking used tire that didn't last 2 miles, whereas, an 'old' ugly looking tire on my trailer got well over 5000 (and this is only since I bought the trailer). If your weight and speed are going to be kept low, the tires might last a while (how much tread is still remaining?) But, if you will be hauling heavy loads for long distances (allowing the tires to get hot), I recommend investing in some new tires sooner rather than later.

Hawk

 

[Diamondpilot]

Around here no tire shop or mechanics will touch a tire over 6 years old except to walk it to the dumpster.

Chris

 

[sixdogs]

Good advice. I'm listening.