Goodyear Recommends Checking Tires Before Hurricane Isabel Lands

AKRON, Ohio, Sept. 17 -- As East Coast residents brace for the fury of Hurricane Isabel, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company says motorists shouldn't be left high and dry by tires and vehicles stranded in floodwaters.

Bill Egan, chief engineer of advance product design for Goodyear, said tires should be inspected now for nicks and cuts in the tread, patched holes and leaky tire valves. If water is allowed inside the tire, it will fail -- eventually.

Egan said Goodyear's Gemini auto service outlets along the East Coast are ramping up to inspect tires and tire inflation. Trained tire technicians are best suited to conduct the inspections.

By their very nature, the multiple layers of rubber-coated steel belts and fabric make tires "essentially waterproof, although they're not specifically formulated to be," Egan said. "Submerged tires mounted on wheels that are found fully inflated should have the best chance for safe use. But if nicks or cuts exist, water eventually will rust the steel belts or degrade the cords.

"It won't be today or tomorrow, but that degradation ultimately will cause tire failure," he added.

Also, if a tire was fixed with a plug or patch, submersion could force water in and around the repair. The longer a tire is underwater, the greater the chance water will enter the tire. Another cause for concern are scratches and chips on the rim that might rust, resulting in air loss over time and possible tire bead damage during dismounting, he said.

Although Isabel has weakened to a Category 2 storm, the hurricane still packs a punch and 110 mph winds. Residents need to be prepared with extra supplies, boarded house windows and vehicles relocated to higher ground.

Hurricane Isabel appears to be on a course to hit Thursday along the North Carolina coast and up through Chesapeake Bay in Virginia. Pennsylvania and even parts of Ohio could fall in Isabel's path, according to news reports.

Egan said motorists should never attempt to drive through flooded roadways. Seek higher, safer ground. If a vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.

A vehicle caught in floodwaters has special needs after the water recedes. Again, a visit to a nearby Goodyear Gemini auto service outlet can spare more serious problems down the road, Egan said.

Gemini auto service technicians will inspect the engine computer, oil and fluids for contamination and tires for water damage.

Besides a close inspection of the tire for nicks or cuts, tire technicians should release air from the valve. If any water leaks out with the air, the tire should be removed from the wheel, cleaned and examined, Egan said.

Dismounted tires submerged in the flood waters -- perhaps stored in a garage or shed -- are more susceptible to water damage. Chemicals, fertilizers, paints, oils, gasoline or contaminated water could make the tires unusable. Again, only checking the tires can determine the extent of intrusion.

Once given the all-clear, Egan said, motorists should consider new upholstery and carpeting. Or if the vehicle's beyond hope, have the vehicle classified as "salvage."