Re: aging tires

pj wrote:
> doug wrote:
>> Sorry if this isn't exactly a Corvette question but it does relate to
>> tires.  What is your thoughts on cars whose tires begin to crack on
>> the sidewalls due to age even when the tread is still pretty good?
>> One tire guy told me to prolong the life of the tire, use Armorall on
>> the sidewalls but I'm hesitant to do this because I recall in the 70's
>> that some were doing it to their dashboards and then they cracked and
>> others said the cracking was due to the Armorall.   Hence I hesitate
>> to put this stuff on my sidewalls.   Is there any stuff you use to
>> prolong the sidewalls from cracking or is this all a myth?
>>
>> Also do you think at some point the cracking is dangerous to the
>> remaining life of the tire? 
>>
>> Thanks all.
>>
>> ps--  I chose this newsgroup over others because I think you guys are
>> real car enthusiasts compared to the other groups :)  . 
> 
> My opinion (assuming you need a speed rated tire): ...any sidewall crack

> is reason to discard the tire.
> 
> A crack exposes the casing cord to ozone, moisture etc. (it's probably 
> the 'etc.' that will get you...LOL)  Once it gets to the cord or the 
> steel components... sayonara speed rating!
> 
> Before you reach that point you'll probably feel poor handling and hear 
> more road noise -- as the tread hardens.  The tire may vibrate even if 
> it's well balanced.
> 
> I hate the recycling fee I have to pay on my well-treaded turn-ins.  I 
> know they are headed for some car in Baja.
> 
> -- 
> pj

Even with a hole in the sidwall?