Retreaded tires have always boasted quality, but now, more than ever their adjustment rate can be as low as or lower than comparable new tires, says Harvy Brotsky, managing director of the Tire Retread & Repair Information Bureau (TRIB).
"Retreaded tires produced in today’s top quality retread factories receive the same care and attention as the best higher priced new tires, and they cost a whole lot less," he writes in a recent report. "In fact, the overall adjustment rate for retreads produced in top quality factories will be as low – and very often lower – than the adjustment rate for comparable new tires. If you don’t believe this ask any top quality retreader to show you his adjustment records."
This can be attributed to technology, which offers more precise machining and rubber chemistry, leading to an increase in value, he adds.
"People who have never been in a modern retread factory are amazed when they tour one. Shearography, ultrasound, high-voltage, and X-Ray are some of the non-destructive testing methods they may see that are used in retreading, enabling retreaders to actually 'see through' the tire to determine if there are separations, broken steel cords or any other damage that would preclude the tire casing from undergoing another safe and useful life after retreading. Tire casings that cannot pass these tests will not be retreaded."
Brotsky points out that the main obstacle of reluctance is "perception."
"People see tire debris on our highways and they assume – incorrectly – that these 'road alligators' are caused by retreads. But the facts belie that belief. The reality is that much of the tire debris we see comes from tires that have NEVER been in a retread plant, and was caused by improper tire maintenance."
Commercial and military airlines have been safely using retreads on all size planes for years, he adds, along with school and municipal buses, fire engines and other emergency vehicles, the U.S. Postal Service, FED EX, UPS, virtually all major trucking fleets, taxis, race cars and many other types of vehicles. "There is even a federal Executive Order (13149) mandating the use of retreads on many types of federal fleet vehicles."
the retreading movement has long been an environmentally friendly industry, as it keeps millions of tires out of landfills every year. "In addition, every time a tire is retreaded a significant amount of oil and other energy sources are saved," Brotsky writes. "Throughout the years, billions of gallons of oil have been saved for the world, thanks to retreading. A retreaded tire may look round and black, but it is very green! We are one of the most environmentally friendly recycled products you will ever use."
He adds that savings can run as much as 50 percent.
To order TRIB materials, call (888) 473-8732 or e-mail [email protected].
