The bulletin describes proper inspection procedures for identifying potential sidewall circumferential ruptures – zipper ruptures – on light, medium and heavy truck radials.
Zipper ruptures are caused when ply cords weaken by under inflation or overloading and begin to break one after another, until a rupture occurs in the upper sidewall with accompanying instantaneous air loss and explosive force. If the rupture happens in the shop, the result can be serious injury or death.
The bulletin is available on the RMA Web site or can be ordered by phone at 800-325-5095 or fax 330-725-5095. (Tire Review/Akron)