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Old July 25th 08, 06:11 AM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
bumper
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Posts: 322
Default Cobra Trailer Tires (US)

I suspect that many of the failures involve heat build up due to low
inflation. A slow leak will do it.

It's a good idea to use an infrared spot thermometer to "shoot" the tire
tread and bearing hubs at each stop. Do it on the tow vehicle tires too.
This may well provide advance notice of a slow leak or overheating bearings.
They are available from about $10 (Harbor Freight and with a 1/1 spot) on
up - - much more expensive when the heat range goes beyond 1000 degrees or
so.

For road tires, you should be seeing 200 F, so a high heat range meter
isn't all that important.

When checking tire temperatures, expect to see higher temperatures on the
leeward side, the sun lit side, or the lower side of a cambered road. With
even inflation, usually the spread won't exceed 30 to 40 F (but I seldom
drive over 60 mph so YMMV).

bumper
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