Tire lifetime following cracking?

[msjanket]

I was looking at an older tractor today and noticed that the rubber was good, but only if you were looking at the actual tread. One tire had extensive cracking around the tread, the other one, strangely, had cracking on the outer side of the tire wall.

The tractor is priced somewhat high, especially considering that the rubber on the back has the cracking. How long can I guess this rubber will be OK, especially under some fair work related stress? While not the worst cracking I've ever seen, I just hate to shell out the dough and find the rubber is the weak link. We are talking some 12.4X24 tires here.

thanks to all

 

[Midniteoyl]

All depends on how long and deep the cracks are. You could have 'crazing' that wont do anything forever, or sever deep cracks that will leak tomorrow. The main thing to take away with cracking tires is that either it sat for a long time in one spot, or sat in the sun. Pictures would help.

 

[Arklaman]

It'll last till they go flat!

 

[paulharvey]

If you tube them they will last till there is basically nothing left of the sidewalls. Be much more concerned about bulges or something similar showing an actual weak spot in sidewall. If it worries you tell them to knock $600 off for a new set, then run it till they do give out, and you have your $600 saved to replace.