Visual Tire Inspection Before Mounting

Before mounting a new tire, carefully inspect it for any damage that may have occurred during shipping or storage, such as cuts, cracks, bulges, or deformities that could impact safety or performance.

For tires that have been previously mounted, inspection becomes even more vital. Clean the interior of the tire and remove any debris, residue, or old lubricant. Examine the inner liner for internal damage and signs of prior repairs. Any repairs must meet approved industry repair guidelines and be limited in number, type, and location.

Complete the inspection by examining the tire's surface for any signs of uneven wear, impact marks, or visible damage. Tires showing structural damage or faulty repairs should not be installed, as these issues can lead to air loss, vibrations, or complete tire failure.

The wheel should be evaluated for any cracks, bends, corrosion, or damage, particularly around the bead seat and flange areas. Damage in these regions can prevent correct bead seating and result in air leaks or vibrations.

Examine the tire beads for cuts, tears, and deformities. Bead damage can occur from previous tire installation or demounting, jeopardizing the tire's ability to form a proper seal on the wheel.

Before mounting, make sure the tire and wheel are compatible by ensuring they have the same diameter and the wheel width meets the manufacturer's recommendations.

• Verify the wheel’s maximum load rating and cold inflation limits to ensure they align with the specifications provided by the wheel manufacturer.

• Check for any specific tire requirements:

• Directional tires have arrows indicating the correct rotation direction.

• Asymmetric tires indicate which side must face outward.

Incorrect sizing or improper placement can negatively impact bead seating, traction, handling, and wear. For more comprehensive tire maintenance guidance, refer to the Tire Maintenance section on Michelin Canada.

Sufficient lubrication is essential for effective and safe tire installation. Both tire beads and rim flanges should receive a coating of an approved tire mounting lubricant. Adequate lubrication minimizes friction, helps avoid bead damage, and ensures the tire seats evenly on the rim.

Avoid using excessive lubrication, as too much moisture within the tire can cause balance issues. The lubricant must be rubber-compatible and should dry after the mounting process. Do not use petroleum-based products, solvents, or non-approved substances, as they can harm the tire.

Proper lubrication supports correct bead seating, which helps maintain a uniform tire shape and decreases the risk of vibration.