Tires and Wheels

It's time for new tires. You're a smart consumer, so you want to be sure you get the most tire for your money. The emergence of a number of quality tire manufacturers in the'90s has broadened the market on tires and kept the prices low while quality and innovation continue to improve. These days there are more tire choices than miracle weight loss programs but with a little refresher course on tires, you can trim away the fat and get yourself a set of fairly-priced, safe and durable tires for your car, truck or SUV.

All Those Numbers and Letters
The side of your tire may look like an ancient hieroglyphic text to you.

Each of the markings stamped into the side of a tire have a meaning. Some of them will be important to you, some won't. You're probably not worried about the speed rating of the tires for your Prius, but your Porsche 997 Turbo needs go-fat rubber on the road. On the flip side, treadwear ratings are important to your hybrid, since they affect gas mileage and the effect your tires have on the environment.

The Breakdown
As technology has advanced, the tire companies agreed upon a uniform system of describing every aspect of each tire. Lucky for us, they all follow the same formula (except for race car tires which are not legal for street use.) The following categories are squeezed onto the side of every tire you can buy.

• Vehicle Application
• Tire Width
• Aspect Ratio
• Radial Designation
• Wheel Diameter
• Load Index
• Speed Rating
• The Official DOT Stuff
• Ply Construction
• Load and Pressure Limits
• Treadwear and Traction Ratings

Which Ones Matter?
Read the facts and decide for yourself. That's why we call it empowerment, it's all about you!

Rims and Tires

Rim and tire packages are the best way to go when buying a new set of wheels. Buying just rims probably won't get you the savings you can get if you throw in tires as well. Since you are going to need new tires eventually, it seems to make sense to get a wheel and tire package. Also, this allows sellers room, since there is profit on both the tires and the wheels. So your going to save on the wheels and tires if you buy them at the same time.

Its easy to shop for wheel and tire packages at victoriatire.com, since they have a package special by car search. All you have to do is put your car in, and you will get a list of wheel and tire packages specials, just for your car. Check it out.

Alloy Rims

CLEANING ALLOY RIMS

1

Pre-rinse the wheels using a fine spray to remove any brake dust or debris. Remove tar stains with a commercial tar remover and a soft cotton cloth.

2

Add some wheel cleaner to the bucket then fill it with warm water. Follow the manufacturer's directions to determine how much wheel cleaner to use.

3

Dip the sponge into the soapy solution. Then wash the wheels, being careful not to rub too hard. When the solution becomes dirty, empty the bucket and mix a fresh batch.

4

Rinse the wheels thoroughly with the hose. Pay special attention to crevices and the back side of the wheels. Dry the wheels with the chamois.

5

Apply an alloy wheel wax according to the manufacturer's directions. Wheel wax will help protect your wheels from brake dust and moisture, and also make them easier to clean. Reapply the wheel wax at least every three months.

Keep Your Chrome Rims Looking New

Chrome rims on a vehcile can certainly enhance its appearance. They're expensive to buy, but when they are new, they shine brightly. They even add value to your ride. Over time, though, without frequent cleaning and polishing, wear and tear can easily dull chrome rims. From there, if they're still not properly maintained, they end up rusting. Before they get to that point, you need to take action.

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Garden hose
• Car wash and polish product suitable for chrome
• Sponge
• Chrome rim cleaner
• Clean, soft rags
• Chrome wax

1. • 1

     Spray the chrome rims on your vehicle off with a garden hose.

   • 2

     Mix your car wash and polish product with water according the product's instructions. Wash the chrome rims thoroughly with a sponge.

   • 3

     Rinse off the chrome rims with a garden hose again. If dirt and grime are still there, use a chrome rim spray cleaner. Spray it on, wash the chrome with a sponge, then spray the rims clean.

   • 4

     Wipe the rims with soft cloths to dry them and apply a coating of wax to each. Allow the wax to dry, then wipe it off with soft cloths.