Consumer information and Reporting safety defects
& Glossary of tire terminology
. Accessory weight
The combined weight (in excess of
those standard items which may be
replaced) of automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes,
power windows, power seats, radio,
and heater, to the extent that these
items are available as factory-installed equipment (whether installed or not).
. Bead
The part of the tire that is made of
steel wires, wrapped or reinforced
by ply cords and that is shaped to fit
the rim.
. Bead separation
A breakdown of the bond between
components in the bead.
. Bias ply tire
A pneumatic tire in which the ply
cords that extend to the beads are
laid at alternate angles substantially
less than 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread.
. Carcass
The tire structure, except tread and
sid