Back to Basics: Part 1: Beads and Sidewalls and What They Add to Performance
Did you know entry-level tire construction engineers, compounders and designers aren’t allowed to touch a new tire for a year or two? That’s because tire design and development isn’t part of any college curriculum. The making of a competent tire engineer isn’t the job of a college professor. That task belongs to veteran tire company
Small Town Inc.: Down-Home Business Dealings Got You Whipped? Find Your Chi With a Little Balance.
If the thought of dealing with City Hall gives you acid reflux, take a deep breath, relax, and think about boning up on jujitsu. These cleansing breaths are a quick fix if the board of zoning appeals is sitting on your request for a zoning variance or the architectural review board wants you to plant
Winter Tire Blues: Auto Advances Add Complexity to Winter Tire Servicing
The snowflake branded on the sidewall of a winter tire isn’t there for decoration. The designation means the tire addresses three winter driving concerns: traction, cornering and braking. “Put on a set of today’s winter tires, and driving in the winter becomes irrelevant.” That’s a direct quote from long-time tire test driver Bob Strange, who
Staying Out of the Courtroom: Is Being Sued Inevitable? Maybe. Here’s What You Should Know If the Gavel Drops
“See You in Court.” Today, that’s just a fancy way of saying, “Goodbye.” Unfortunately, that’s often the harsh truth when your employees, your customers or government agencies utter that short but terrifying sentence. So, how can you stay out of court? And, how do you keep from panicking if and when someone says those ominous
Industry Report
Conti to Add "Low Cost" Production for N.A.Continental AG announced plans to spend upwards of $306.9 million to boost tire capacity in low-cost countries, primarily to benefit its struggling North American operations. In addition, Continental officials said the company is still seeking a partner in China.
Another Twisted Tale
We Americans love to twist the words we think we hear to suit our sensibilities. Politicians understand this, which is why they speak in sound bites. American media does its part by clouding the facts of the news with buzzwords and hype, scaring instead of informing, stretching reality to suit what sells. "Must see" news
Industry Report
With a new three-year labor contract in hand, Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. turned its attention to other restructuring issues as it works to right its financial ship. The tiremaker formally announced the closing of its Huntsville, Ala., plant, then laid off about 200 employees from its Tyler, Texas, facility.
Up to Bats
Keeping Your Eye on the Ball Will Keep Fleet Customers Rolling Trouble-Free Since fleets are beginning to recognize the importance of tire inflation pressure maintenance, the number of tractors and trailers inspected on a daily basis is probably as high as it’s ever been. Unfortunately, too many technicians just check the tread depth and the
Sensible Safety
For most in the commercial trucking business, the first couple months of the year are typically less hectic than several of the preceding months and, therefore, is a good time for reflection. The old saying "made it through another one" begins to evolve from a trite expression to an air of determination, resolve and grit.
Cutting the Tape: What the TREAD Act Means to You … Today
What the TREAD Act Means to You … Today Elected officials love to jump on consumer safety issues. It’s the best job security strategy around. In November 2000, that’s precisely what Congress did when the Firestone recall and Ford Explorer debacle gave them the motive and opportunity to create and pass into law a