SPECIAL LOW VIBRATION MOUNTING
FOR BRIDGESTONE RADIAL TRUCK TIRES
Many new Bridgestone Firestone truck tires have red marks for use with specially-marked steel wheels to help optimize uniformity. All Bridgestone Firestone truck tires have yellow marks, to aid in initial balance. (White marks are factory inspection marks, and are not used in mounting or balancing.) Proper use of these marks during new tire mounting and installation can result in better ride and less vehicle vibration.

If the tire has a red mark, use only the red mark during mounting. Torque wheel nuts with red mark at “12 o’clock” position.

If the tire does not have a red mark, place yellow mark next to valve stem, regardless of wheel type.

 


Tire light static balance mark.

Valve stem.


Valve stems.

 

Tire high point mark.

Steel wheel low point dimple.

Tire high point mark.
Valve stem, on aluminum wheels or steel wheels without dimples.

MOUNTING RADIAL TRUCK TIRES
TO HELP REDUCE VIBRATION AND IRREGULAR WEAR

Consistent, correct truck tire mounting is important for proper bead-to-wheel fit, and can help reduce vehicle vibration and irregular wear for better ride and longer original tread life.

Important steps:

1. Clean and paint used wheels.

2. Lubricate both tire bead and wheel seat.

3. Check the assembly for even centering.

Always follow all OSHA, RMA and manufacturer’s tire mounting safety precautions!
1. Remove dirt, rust or corrosion that can interfere with proper seal or damage bead. 2. Protect bare metal with primer or anti-rust paint to prevent further corrosion. 3. Lubricate the wheel bead seat, using a vegetable oil based lubricant approved for both tire and wheel use.
4. Lubricate tire bead. Do not use petroleum or solvent based products. They cause rubber to deteriorate. 5. Inflate assembly to seat bead and check for leaks around wheel. 6. Measure distance from molded ring on tire to flange at four locations, 90o apart.
7. Distances A, B, C and D should be equal, within 2/32”. If they are not, break down assembly, lubricate again, and remount.