Monday, February 04, 2013
Odd PSA
Lately a public-service spot about tires has been running on local radio. Seems to be national and professional but doesn't make a lick of sense. It's from the tire manufacturers trade association, and it finishes with a strong cautionary tone:
"Remember! Repairs are only made to the inner tread area, not to the sidewall! The tire is removed fully from the rim!"
It's been a while since I owned a car, but I do remember getting tire repairs; and I don't remember any concern or argument about where the repair was. When I had a flat, the gas station either fixed it, or told me the tire was unfixable. And I know that the tire is removed fully from the rim when it's repaired. I've fixed plenty of bike tires, so I understand the procedure.
Why are these dire cautions needed? Who has the misimpression that repairs are only made on the sidewall, or that tires are repaired without removing? Even if you have that idea, why do you need to learn that the idea is wrong? I suppose many modern folks don't know anything about tire repair, but they wouldn't have any false knowledge that needs to be corrected.
This strange bit of unnecessary teaching must be related to a class-action lawsuit somehow. Trying to shape the thinking of people who might be potential class plaintiffs.
¶ 4:00 AM 
