Retreaded tires have gotten a bum rap. Many people might be surprised to find out that retreads are even used anymore. The truth is retreads are commonly used by the U.S. postal service, taxi cab companies and commercial airlines. Nearly have of all replacement truck tires are retreads. If you are surprised to find retreads used so extensively then you probably believe the myth that retreaded tires aren’t as safe as new tires. Fact is, retreads are just as safe and perhaps a little safer due to being inspected more rigorously before being retread. Many people, when they see strips of tires along side on in the road assume they are retreads that have separated from tires. But most of those so called “road gators” have never been retreaded. Tread separating from a tire is called by poor tire maintenance and has nothing to do with whether the tire was new or retreaded. While it might seem logical that a retread would not last as long as a new tire, retreaded tires last anywhere from 100 to 75% as long as a new tire. The difference isn’t because the retread itself fails but is due to retreads often starting with less tread depth, or being narrower then a new tire because of the condition of the tire casing. Retreads are made in the same way as new tires; only difference is that retreads reuse the casing (base of tire that tread is attached to). For those who think that tire retreads are only made from cheap tires, you will be happy to know that radial, both steel belted and non-steel belted as well as high performance tires can be retreaded. Because high performance tires are usually manufactured with cap plies the original tire casing takes retreading even better. Cap plies are extra layers of polyester fabric used to help secure tire components together at high speeds. One myth was uncovered by Harvey Brodsky, Managing Director of TRIB (the Tire Retread & Repair Information Bureau) at the Mid America Truck Show in Louisville, Ky. Brodsky was repeated told by truck drivers who used retreads that it was common knowledge that retreads shouldn’t be inflated to the same degree as new tires. But the truth is that retreads can and should be inflated to the same level as a new tire would be. As is often the case in other matters, people are absolutely sure that what they know about retreads is true, but it often isn’t. The fact of the matter is that retreaded tires are a way to save transportation costs. Retreads can be expected to perform as well as tires that have never been retreaded, when maintained in the same manner. Source: http://www.retread.org/ Category:Home › Autos • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 2 • You should never use after-market auto parts when maintaining or fixing your car • Should a new car be rust-proofed? • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 1 • Five safest cars in North America • How to ensure your teen drives safely after getting a license • Pros and cons of using an hydrogen generator for your car • DIY automotive maintenance: How to change the oil