Basics of correct tyre fitment on Taxi's

a.   Correct type of tyre (commercials)

  i.   Always fit “commercial type” tyres to a taxi. “Passenger type” tyres will break or burst, as they are not made for carrying weight. A commercial type tyre must have a “C” behind the size of the tyre. For example
195 R14 C

b.   Correct size                                                

  i.  Fit the right size tyre on the rim. A tyre that is too small or too big will jump off the rim. Ask the tyre dealer what the right size is or refer to the vehicle manual.

c.   Fit new valve every time with new tyre                            

   i.  The biggest problem of tyres deflating is valves breaking or leaking. A valve is cheap. Put a new valve on the rim every time another tyre is fitted.

d.   Rim in good order                                                          

  i.   A good rim is needed to keep the pressure in a tyre. A bumped or damaged rim can also cause a tyre to suddenly deflate or jump off the rim. Replace a rim with a new one if damaged or have it repaired by a specialist.

e.   Check pressure                                                             

  i.   Many new or replaced tyres are damaged due to inflation lost within the first few days after bad fitment or leaking valves. Check tyres every day especially for the first week, and thereafter on a weekly basis.  It is highly recommended that each driver has his own pressure gauge to be able to check pressures regularly and inflate tyres whenever necessary to avoid damage and/or uneven wear due to incorrect pressures.  By checking pressures regularly you ensure that you get use of the full life of the tyre.

f.   Tight wheel nuts and fit all nuts                                   

1.        Tyre economy

a.    Cheap tyres not always most economical

        i.      Tyres with long life.  Good quality new or retreaded tyres last the longest and cost the least per km traveled.

       ii.      Fitting second hand or repaired tyres are dangerous as you do not know what happened to them or that they were properly repaired. These tyres also cost the most per km traveled.

      iii.      Never fit regrooved or patched tyres. The life of yourself, your passengers and the other road users are far more valuable than the saving on buying a cheap tyre!

b.    Good maintenance leads to long tyre life

            Tyre will give a good and safe service if you look after them.