Advice from RoSPA:
Tyres that have been in storage should not be placed into use if they are over 6 years old, from their date of manufacture.
When a tyre has been in use, the effects of ageing are lessened to a degree, but such tyres should be replaced after 10 years.
The effects of ageing can be brought about prematurely in several conditions:
1. Tyres fitted as spare wheels or used on caravans and trailers may age prematurely. If tyres on caravans or trailers are not in regular use, then they should be inspected before every journey.
2. Tyres used predominantly in coastal areas will age at a greater rate due to the saline conditions
3 several cleaning products may also harm the chemicals in the rubber.
There doesn't seem to be any "Official" advice or Construction and Use rules relating specifically to age.
BUT, it does seem that the spare on a Mog will age more rapidly than the road contact wheels, and if out in the sun near the coast might be toast in much less time than the road tyres.
Tarka is 3 years old on 2 April: the rear tyres are down to 3.5mm. Given the car has run 30,700 I rather doubt they are original... anyway, time to change them I think.
The question is to what. I have Avon ZZ3s, but the new ZZ5 isn't available in the size needed for the front and anyway I wouldn't fit different make tyres front and rear.
Suggestions anyone?
