How do you guys store your tires ?

chefwong · 12-20-03, 01:56

Obviously clean them beforehand....
I cheated today. Put the snow shoes on and cleaned the summer tires with P21S Total Auto Wash. Let it sit for awhile, scrubbed and got the tires pretty clean.

On the backside, there were some stubbon sports. A little EFHI and some more scrubbing and it got better but not 100% Autopian clean. When it get's warmer, I'll prep them with another cleaning, AIO/SG/Insulator Wax before putting them on.

Is it best to store them stacked on top of each other or vertical if I have the space to store them vertically.

Vertically.....possibly flatspotting but I don't see that happening because there's not an extra 6000 lbs that the tires are supporting.

Stacked..........in theory it makes sense but I'm looking at it this way.....Each tire is around 50-60lbs. Stack them on top of each other and the tire that is on the bottom, has about 180lbs that the sidewall is supporting.

Anyone know what is the *correct way* to store tires ?

tnoy66 · 12-20-03, 02:02

Mine are stacked, but thats more of a floor space issue. I've also seen wheel/tyres stacked at wheel shops so I wouldn't worry too much.

Robb · 12-20-03, 02:29

Mine are stacked mainly for space reasons as well, put my snow shows on about a month ago and they had been stored stacked as well, no problems

bretfraz · 12-20-03, 03:35

You are correct in assuming storing them vertically (standing up) will result in flat spots. Store them stacked, wrapped individually in plastic (a garbage bag works well), and if you can, stack them on a pallet or something similar to keep them off concrete in case they slide around (get bumped into).

I have a set of wheels and tires that I've stored like this for several years and they're fine. The tires I've stored standing up all have had flat spots.

prowler · 12-20-03, 03:49

Quote:

Originally posted by bretfraz
You are correct in assuming storing them vertically (standing up) will result in flat spots. Store them stacked, wrapped individually in plastic (a garbage bag works well), and if you can, stack them on a pallet or something similar to keep them off concrete in case they slide around (get bumped into).

What he says. Also, none of my garbage bags fit the 20" prowler rears, but if you're on good terms with your local Radio Shack, their large plastic shopping bags did the trick. I also read once that it helps to get the highest lanolin content handcream and coat the tires, inside and out, before putting them into the bags and it will prevent the rubber from deteriorating. Anyone else hear about this?

chefwong · 12-20-03, 03:52

What is the purpose of storing them in garbage bags ?

I'll be storing it in the garage.....there's no Windows (UV) that will be exposed to the tires.

Lost Pup · 12-20-03, 04:20

We clean and completely dry the tires. Coat them with 303 and wrap them in plastic. We use a clear packing type plastic on a roll and weave it through the tires. They are stored in pipe racks with contact points at 4 & 8 o clock.

Brad B. · 12-20-03, 08:11

Here's what I do. I made the roll around stand out of plywood and castor wheels. This makes everything easily mobile. I also seperate tires with cardboard.

banzaitoyota · 12-22-03, 06:03

I sotr mine on the side, inside a black SEALED bag, coated with FORMULA V traction compound. My Kumho Victoracers for auto-crossing

TOGWT · 12-22-03, 08:37

I store mine the like BradB. I brought a plant stand with rollers.

Question: Why store tyres in plastic? (not a challenge, just interested)

Experience unshared; is knowledge wasted…/

~ justadumbarchitect * so i question everything *

banzaitoyota · 12-22-03, 10:13

I store them in bags, because the instructions on the rubber softener (Formula V) say too. Plus it protects them from UV rays

dmatre · 12-22-03, 12:50

Not only UV will degrade tires, but ozone as well.

Storing the tires in plastic bags reduces or prevents ozone degredation.

Ozone is produced by the arcing in any electric motor (think garage door opener, air compressor, refridgerator/freezer, PC polisher, etc).

While ozone will still be produced, having the tires in plastic will prevent the ozone degredation. (plastic doesn't have to be sealed, as there is very little airflow through a folded or rolled plastic bag).