Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards; Metric Conversion of Tire Standards

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

49 CFR Part 571

[Docket No. NHTSA-98-3837, Notice 1]

RIN 2127-AH07

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards; Metric Conversion of Tire

Standards

AGENCY: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; technical amendment.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This document revises selected Federal Motor Vehicle Safety

Standards (FMVSS) on tires by converting English measurements specified

in those standards to metric measurements. This is one of several

rulemaking actions that NHTSA is undertaking to implement the Federal

policy that the metric system of measurement is the preferred system of

weights and measures for United States trade and commerce. The

conversions are not intended to make any changes in the stringency of

the affected FMVSS. A companion final rule published in today's Federal

Register converts, from English measurements to metric measurements,

selected FMVSSs that do not relate to tires.

This document also includes a technical amendment to the standard

on tire selection and rims for motor vehicles other than passenger cars

so that tire information provided on labels may use abbreviations for

units of weight (mass) measurement.

DATE: This final rule is effective May 27, 2003. Optional early

compliance with the changes made in this final rule is permitted

beginning May 27, 1998.

ADDRESSES: Petitions for reconsideration of this final rule should

refer to the docket and notice number cited in the heading of this

final rule and be submitted to: Administrator, National Highway Traffic

Safety Administration, 400 Seventh Street, SW, Washington, DC 20590. It

is requested, but not required, that 10 copies be submitted.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Kevin Cavey, National Highway

Traffic Safety Administration, 400 Seventh Street, SW, Washington, DC

20590. Mr. Cavey's telephone number is: (202) 366-5271.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Background Information

Section 5164 of the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act (Pub. L.

100-418), makes it United States (U.S.) policy that the metric system

of measurement is the preferred system of weights and measures for

United States trade and commerce. Executive Order 12770 directs Federal

agencies to comply with the Act by adopting a conversion schedule for

their programs by September 30, 1992. In a Federal Register document of

April 21, 1992 (57 FR 14619), the National Highway Traffic Safety

Administration (NHTSA) published its plan to use the metric system in

NHTSA programs, and included an implementation schedule to convert the

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSSs) to metric measurements.

In a final rule published on March 15, 1995 (60 FR 13639), NHTSA

completed the first phase of metrication, converting English

measurements in the following FMVSSs to the metric system: Standard No.

102, Transmission shift lever sequence, starter interlock, and

transmission braking effect; Standard No. 103, Windshield defrosting

and defogging systems; Standard No. 104, Windshield wiping and washing

systems; Standard No. 107, Reflecting surfaces; Standard No. 110, Tire

selection and rims; Standard No. 112, Headlamp concealment devices;

Standard No. 114, Theft protection; Standard No. 115, Vehicle

identification number--basic requirements; Standard No. 120, Tire

selection and rims for motor vehicles other than passenger cars;

Standard No. 124, Accelerator control systems; Standard No. 126, Truck-

camper loading; Standard No. 205, Glazing materials; Standard No. 206,

Door locks and door retention components; Standard No. 207, Seating

systems; Standard No. 212, Windshield mounting, and Standard No. 216,

Roof crush resistance.

In the March 14, 1995 final rule, NHTSA established the following

principles for converting English system measurements to the metric

system:

(1) Equivalent conversions are generally favored, not exact ones;

(2) The term ``mass'' is favored over the term ``weight,'' except

when ``weight'' is used as part of a defined term;

(3) Force measurements are converted by specifying in the

regulatory language the steps for making the conversion; and

(4) Dual measurements (i.e., both English and metric measurements)

are used in a standard when it seems likely that it will be read by

persons not fully accustomed to using the metric system.

NHTSA stated its intent to follow these principles in future

metrication rulemakings.

II. Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for Second Phase

On April 21, 1997, NHTSA began its second phase of metricating the

FMVSSs by publishing a notice of proposed rulemaking to convert English

measurements in the following Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards to

the metric system: Standard No. 101, Controls and displays; Standard

No. 109, New pneumatic tires; Standard No. 111, Rearview mirrors;

Standard No. 116, Motor vehicle brake fluids; Standard No. 117,

Retreaded pneumatic tires; Standard No. 119, New pneumatic tires for

vehicles other than passenger cars; Standard No. 123, Motorcycle

controls and displays; Standard No. 201, Occupant protection in

interior impact; Standard No. 202, Head restraints; Standard No. 203,

Impact protection for the driver from the steering control system;

Standard No. 204, Steering control rearward displacement; Standard No.

209, Seat belt assemblies; Standard No. 210, Seat belt assembly

anchorages; Standard No. 219, Windshield zone intrusion; Standard No.

220, School bus rollover protection; Standard No. 222, School bus

passenger seating and crash protection; Standard No. 301, Fuel system

integrity; and Standard No. 302, Flammability of interior materials.

The agency raised issues concerning the following proposed

conversions: 1

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\1\ The issues relating to the other standards addressed in the

NPRM are discussed in today's companion notice.

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Exact Versus Equivalent Conversions--In the NPRM, NHTSA stated that

although it generally favors the use of equivalent conversions, it will

not use equivalent conversions where there is a specific safety need or

other reason to make an exact conversion. For

[[Page 28913]]

certain proposed conversions (i.e., ones involving requirements that

specify the height of lettering, the minimum depth to which the

lettering must be impressed, or the maximum height to which it must be

embossed), NHTSA proposed exact conversions to minimize the possibility

of manufacturers having to change molds and materials. NHTSA also

proposed exact conversions for measurements in several non-tire

standards to avoid a possibility that the standard would become more

stringent after the conversion.

Dual Measurements--The agency stated its belief that converting

some tables so that they contain only metric measurements may not be

very informative to American tire manufacturers and retreaders and

mirror manufacturers, many of whom may be more familiar with English

measurements. Accordingly, in the case of the mirror and tire

standards, NHTSA proposed that the tables and regulatory text provide

both the English and metric systems of measurement. Specifically, for

Standard No. 117, Retreaded pneumatic tires, NHTSA proposed to include

both p.s.i. and kPa measurements in Table I--``Plies''. For Standard

No. 119, New pneumatic tires for vehicles other than passenger cars,

NHTSA proposed to provide both English and metric measurements in Table

I--``Strength Test Plunger Diameter'', Table II--``Minimum Static

Breaking Energy'', and Table III--``Endurance Test Schedule''.

NHTSA sought public comment on the proposal to use dual

measurements for the specified tables and on the period of time after

which use of the English units of measurements should be phased out.

Leadtime--NHTSA proposed that, if made final, the changes proposed

in the NPRM take effect one year after the publication of the final

rule, with manufacturers given the option to comply immediately with

the new measurements. NHTSA stated its belief that one year is enough

lead time for industry to make any necessary changes. In the past,

NHTSA has consistently stated that it is not the agency's intent to

impose unnecessary costs to manufacturers as a result of the

metrication process. NHTSA stated it was aware that if some of the

proposed changes in the tire standards were made final, tire mold

manufacturers would have to change molds to accommodate the new metric/

English measurements. Changing tire molds to accommodate labeling with

metric measurements where the metric measurements are not specified may

result in manufacturers incurring significant costs unless sufficient

leadtime is given so that changes could be made when molds are changed.

NHTSA specifically sought comment on the amount of lead time that

tire manufacturers should be given so that they could meet any changes

that may result if the amendments proposed in NPRM are made final.

NHTSA asked whether one year is enough lead time to permit tire

manufacturers to purchase new molds that would meet the metricated

standard.

III. Public Comments and NHTSA's Response

In response to the NPRM, NHTSA received comments from 17

commenters. Several commenters addressed only proposed metric

conversions in the tire standards: Japan Automobile Tire Manufacturers'

Association, Goodyear, Rubber Manufacturers' Assn., Toyota, and the

European Tyre and Rim Technical Organization. The following comments

were offered on Standard No. 109, New pneumatic tires; Standard No.

117, Retreaded pneumatic tires; and Standard No. 119, New pneumatic

tires for vehicles other than passenger cars.

Most of the suggestions of commenters for changes to the three tire

standards were to correct typographical errors or to make the

conversions more consistent with established tire industry, European or

other international standards. Many of the commenters made identical

suggestions for changes. NHTSA has reviewed each suggested change and

determined whether the change, if adopted, would have a substantive

effect on the tire standard. The final rule incorporates the suggested

changes, except as noted below.

The Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA), in a June 19, 1997

submission, made detailed comments on proposed changes to Standards

109, 117, and 119. NHTSA has made almost all of RMA's suggested

changes. However, the agency is not making RMA's suggested changes for

Standard No. 119's S6.5(d) and S6.5(e). S6.5 specifies information that

must be marked on tire sidewalls. That information includes the maximum

load rating and corresponding inflation pressure of the tire (S6.5(d))

and the speed restriction of the tire, if 55 miles per hour or less

(S6.5(e)). RMA's recommendation would make it optional, not mandatory,

that the S6.5(d) and (e) information on tires be marked in metric and

English system units. RMA's reason for its recommendation is that

virtually every mold for tires regulated by Standard No. 119 would have

to be restamped and there is ``no justification for that kind of

expense,'' even if spread out over several years.

In a submission dated August 28, 1997, RMA stated that its members

estimate a cost to the industry of $18.2 million dollars to make

changes to tire molds, if the one year implementation date proposed in

the NPRM is adopted. The $18.2 million figure was calculated by adding

the estimates provided by Goodyear, Michelin and Bridgestone-Firestone

(a total of $15 million) and those provided by Dunlop, Continental, and

Cooper (a total of $3.2 million).

Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company also asked that NHTSA not require

metric markings for Standard No. 119. Goodyear stated that adding

metric markings would mean that it would have to ``virtually have to

restamp every mold that currently exists for tires covered'' by

Standard No. 119. Goodyear stated that the restamping would be a major

expense and not consistent with NHTSA's desire not to unduly burden

tire manufactures.

NHTSA is not adopting RMA and Goodyear's request not to metricate

Standard No. 119. NHTSA has undertaken this rulemaking to implement the

Federal policy that the metric system of measurement is the preferred

system of weights and measurements for United States trade and

commerce. The metrication policy applies to all Federal Motor Vehicle

Safety Standards, including Standard No. 119.

NHTSA notes that neither RMA nor Goodyear provided information on a

leadtime for implementing the metrication of Standard No. 119 that

would minimize the compliance burden on the tire industry. Therefore,

in order to lessen the burden on tire manufacturers, NHTSA will not

make the final rule effective in one year, as proposed in the NPRM, but

will delay the effective date of the metricated tire standards for five

years. Optional immediate compliance is also provided. NHTSA believes

that during the course of five years, tire manufacturers will have the

opportunity to replace molds as they become outmoded or worn out with

new molds that incorporate both metric and English measurements.

IV. Technical Amendment to Standard No. 120

In the NPRM, NHTSA did not propose changes to Standard No. 120,

Tire selection and rims for motor vehicles other than passenger cars.

Nevertheless, Rover Group Ltd. suggested that the sample label titled

``TRUCK EXAMPLE--SUITABLE TIRE-RIM

[[Page 28914]]

CHOICE'' (following S5.3.2 of Standard No. 120) be amended to permit

lower case letters for KG, the abbreviation for kilogram.

Land Rover's comment indicates that it believes ``kilograms'' used

in the label may be abbreviated as ``kg''. At present, the label

example specifies that units of weight be spelled out, i.e.,

``kilogram'' or ``pound''. However, NHTSA has reexamined the label

example and determined that consumers will not be confused by the

abbreviations ``kg'' and ``lbs'' in lieu, respectively, of

``kilograms'' and ``pounds.'' Thus, NHTSA in this final rule is also

amending the label example that follows S5.3.2 of Standard No. 120 to

permit abbreviations for kilograms and pounds.

However, NHTSA is not specifying that the abbreviation ``kg'' be in

lower case letters because S5.3 Label information specifies that all

information provided be ``lettered in block capitals and numerals.''

NHTSA does not agree with Land Rover that persons seeing an upper case

``KG'' on the label will likely mistake this abbreviation for ``Kelvin

Giga'' (which means Kelvin temperature of Celsius +273 deg. times 10 to

the ninth power) instead of the more common ``kilogram.''

V. Regulatory Impacts

A . Executive Order 12866 and DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures

NHTSA has examined the impact of this rulemaking action under E.O.

12866 and the Department of Transportation's regulatory policies and

procedures. This rulemaking document was not reviewed under E. O.

12866, ``Regulatory Planning and Review.'' This action has been

determined to be not ``significant'' under DOT's regulatory policies

and procedures.

In converting the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards from the

English to the metric measurement system, the agency has made

conversions in a way that does not substantively change the safety

performance required of motor vehicle and motor vehicle equipment. As a

result of this rule, manufacturers now providing consumer information

(e.g., labeling) may incur minimal additional costs since they will

have to add metric units to the information on their tires. In order to

ensure that tire manufacturers can make the timing of their addition of

the metrics unit information coincide with the timing of the

replacement of their tire molds as they wear out and naturally reach

the end of their useful life, the agency is providing five years of

leadtime. The impacts of this action will be so minor that preparation

of a full regulatory evaluation for this proposed rule is not

warranted.

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

The agency has considered the effects of this rulemaking action

under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.). I certify

that this proposed rule will not have a significant economic impact on

a substantial number of small entities. As noted above, converting from

the English system to the metric system will not require a change in

the performance of any tire. While tire molds may have to be changed to

accommodate dual metric/English labeling on tires, tire manufacturers

can schedule the change so that it coincides with the normal retirement

of tire molds as they wear out.

NHTSA does not know of any U.S. small businesses that manufacture

tires. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)'s small business

size standard for a tire manufacturer is at 13 CFR 121.601 Standard

Industrial Classification Codes and size standards. The Standard

Industrial Classification Code (SIC) for manufacturers of tires and

inner tubes is 3011. For SIC 3011, the SBA has established a size

standard of 1,000 employees or fewer.

C. Environmental Impacts

In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969,

the agency has considered the environmental impacts of this rulemaking

action and determined that, as a final rule, it will not have a

significant impact on the quality of the human environment.

D. Federalism

This action has been analyzed in accordance with the principles and

criteria contained in Executive Order 12612, and it has been determined

that the final rule does not have sufficient federalism implications to

warrant the preparation of a Federalism Assessment.

E. Civil Justice Reform

This proposed rule will not have a retroactive effect. Under 49

U.S.C. section 30103, whenever a Federal motor vehicle safety standard

is in effect, a state may not adopt or maintain a safety standard

applicable to the same aspect of performance which is not identical to

the Federal standard. 49 U.S.C. section 30106 sets forth a procedure

for judicial review of final rules establishing, amending or revoking

Federal motor vehicle safety standards. That section does not require

submission of a petition for reconsideration or other administrative

proceedings before parties may file suit in court.

List of Subjects in 49 CFR Part 571

Imports, Motor vehicle safety, Motor vehicles, Rubber and rubber

products, Tires.

In consideration of the foregoing, the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety

Standards (49 CFR Part 571), are amended as set forth below.

PART 571--FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS

1. The authority citation for part 571 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: 49 U.S.C. 322, 30111, 30115, 30117, and 30166;

delegation of authority at 49 CFR 1.50.

2. Section 571.109 is amended by revising in S4.2.1, paragraph (d);

revising S4.2.2.3.1; revising S4.2.2.3.2; revising the first sentence

of S4.3 Labeling Requirements introductory paragraph; revising the

first sentence of S4.3.5; revising S5.2.2.1; revising S5.3.2.1;

revising S5.3.2.3; revising S5.4.1.2; revising S5.4.2.1; revising

S5.4.2.2; revising S5.4.2.3; revising S5.5.2; revising S5.5.3; and

revising S5.5.4 to read as follows:

Sec. 571.109 Standard No. 109, New pneumatic tires.

* * * * *

S4.2.1. General. Each tire shall conform to each of the following:

* * * * *

(d) It shall incorporate a tread wear indicator that will provide a

visual indication that the tire has worn to a tread depth of 1.6 mm

(\1/16\ inch).

* * * * *

S4.2.2.3.1 When a tubeless tire that has a maximum inflation

pressure other than 420 kPa (60 psi) is tested in accordance with S5.2,

the applied force required to unseat the tire bead at the point of

contact shall be not less than:

(a) 6,670 N (1,500 pounds) for tires with a designated section

width of less than 160 mm (6 inches);

(b) 8,890 N (2,000 pounds) for tires with a designated section

width of 160 mm (6 inches) or more but less than 205 mm (8 inches);

(c) 11,120 N (2,500 pounds) for tires with a designated section

width of 205 mm (8 inches) or more, using the section width specified

in a submission made by an individual manufacturer, pursuant to

S4.4.1(a), or in one of the publications described in S4.4.1(b) for the

applicable tire size designation and type.

S4.2.2.3.2 When a tire that has a maximum inflation pressure of

420 kPa

[[Page 28915]]

(60 psi) is tested in accordance with S5.2, the applied force required

to unseat the bead at the point of contact shall be not less than:

(a) 6,670 N (1,500 pounds) for tires with a maximum load rating of

less than 399 kg (880 pounds);

(b) 8,890 N (2,000 pounds) for tires with a maximum load rating of

399 kg (880 pounds) or more but less than 635 kg (1,400 pounds);

(c) 11,120 N (2,500 pounds) for tires with a maximum load rating of

635 kg (1,400 pounds) or more, using the maximum load rating marked on

the sidewall of the tire.

* * * * *

S4.3 Labeling Requirements. Except as provided in S4.3.1 and

S4.3.2, each tire shall have permanently molded into or onto both

sidewalls, in letters and numerals not less than 2 mm (0.078 inches)

high, the information shown in paragraphs S4.3 (a) and (g). * * *

* * * * *

S4.3.5 If the maximum inflation pressure of a tire is 420 kPa (60

psi), the tire shall have permanently molded into or onto both

sidewalls, in letters and numerals not less than 12.7 mm (\1/2\ inch),

the words ``Inflate to 420 kPa (60 psi)''. * * *

* * * * *

S5.2.2.1 Apply a load through the block to the tire's outer

sidewall at the distance specified in Figure 1 for the applicable wheel

size at a rate of 50 mm (2 inches) per minute, with the load arm

substantially parallel to the tire and rim assembly at the time of

engagement.

* * * * *

S5.3.2.1 Force a 19 mm (\3/4\ inch) diameter cylindrical steel

plunger with a hemispherical end perpendicularly into the tread rib as

near to the centerline as possible, avoiding penetration into the tread

groove, at the rate of 50 mm (2 inches) per minute.

* * * * *

S5.3.2.3 Compute the breaking energy for each test point by means

of one of the two following formulas:

W=[(F x P)/2] x 10 x 3 (joules)

Where

W=Energy, in joules;

F=Force, Newtons; and

P=Penetration, mm; or

W=[(F x P)/2]

Where

W=Energy, inch-pounds;

F=Force, pounds; and

P=Penetration, inches.

* * * * *

S5.4.1.2 Condition the tire assembly to 38 deg.3 deg.

C (100 deg.5 deg. F) for at least three hours.

* * * * *

S5.4.2.1 Mount the tire and wheel assembly on a test axle and

press it against a flat-faced steel test wheel 1708 mm (67.23 inches)

in diameter and at least as wide as the section width of the tire to be

tested or an approved equivalent test wheel, with the applicable test

load specified in the table in S5.4.2.3 for the tire's size

designation, type and maximum permissible inflation pressure.

S5.4.2.2 During the test, the air surrounding the test area shall

be 38 deg.3 deg. C (100 deg.5 deg. F).

S5.4.2.3 Conduct the test at 80 kilometers per hour (km/h)(50

miles per hour) in accordance with the following schedule without

pressure adjustment or other interruptions:

The loads for the following periods are the specified percentage of

the maximum load rating marked on the tire sidewall:

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Percent

------------------------------------------------------------------------

4 hours....................................................... 85

6 hours....................................................... 90

24 hours...................................................... 100

------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *

S5.5.2 Break in the tire by running it for 2 hours at 80 km/h (50

mph).

S5.5.3 Allow to cool to 38 deg.3 deg. C

(100 deg.5 deg. F) and readjust the inflation pressure to

the applicable pressure specified in Table II.

S5.5.4 Without readjusting inflation pressure, test at 121 km/h

(75 mph) for 30 minutes, 129 km/h (80 mph) for 30 minutes, and 137 km/h

(85 mph) for 30 minutes.

* * * * *

3. In Sec. 571.109, Figure 1--``Bead Unseating Fixture--Dimensions

in Inches'', the Table titled ``Figures for Standard No. 109'', Figure

2--``Diagram of Beat Unseating Block Dimensions in Inches'', and Figure

2A--``Diagram of Bead Unseating Block--Dimensions in Inches'' after S6,

and preceding Appendix A, are revised to read as follows:

BILLING CODE 4910-59-P

[[Page 28916]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR27MY98.013

BILLING CODE 4910-59-C

Figures for Standard 109

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Dimension ``A'' for tires with maximum inflation pressure

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Wheel sizes Other than

Other than 60 psi 420 kPa 60 psi 420 kPa

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

19.................................. 13.00 in............... 330 12.00 in............... 305

18.................................. 12.50 in............... 318 11.40 in............... 290

17.................................. 12.00 in............... 305 10.60 in............... 269

16.................................. 11.50 in............... 292 9.90 in................ 251

15.................................. 11.00 in............... 279 9.40 in................ 239

14.................................. 10.50 in............... 267 8.90 in................ 226

13.................................. 10.00 in............... 254 8.40 in................ 213

12.................................. 9.50 in................ 241 ....................... ...........

11.................................. 9.00 in................ 229 ....................... ...........

10.................................. 8.50 in................ 216 ....................... ...........

320................................. 8.50 in................ 216 ....................... ...........

340................................. 9.00 in................ 229 ....................... ...........

345................................. 9.25 in................ 235 ....................... ...........

365................................. 9.75 in................ 248 ....................... ...........

370................................. 10.00 in............... 254 ....................... ...........

390................................. 11.00 in............... 279 ....................... ...........

415................................. 11.50 in............... 292 ....................... ...........

4001................................ 10.25 in............... 260 ....................... ...........

4251................................ 10.75 in............... 273 ....................... ...........

4501................................ 11.25 in............... 286 ....................... ...........

4751................................ 11.75 in............... 298 ....................... ...........

5001................................ 12.25 in............... 311

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 For CT Tires only.

BILLING CODE 4910-59-P

[[Page 28917]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR27MY98.014

[[Page 28918]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR27MY98.015

BILLING CODE 4910-59-C

[[Page 28919]]

4. In Sec. 571.109, in Appendix A, Table 1-A--``For Bias Ply Tires

with Designated Section Width of 6 Inches and Above'', Table 1-B ``For

Bias Ply Tires with Designated Section Width Below 6 Inches'', Table 1-

C ``For Radial Ply Tires'', Table 1-D ``For Tires with 60 lb/in\2\

Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure and Maximum Load Rating Below

880 Lb. And Above'', and Table 1-E ``For Tires With 60 lb/in\2\ Maximum

Permissible Inflation Pressure and Maximum Load Rating Below 880 Lb''

are revised to read as follows:

Appendix A--Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109

Table I-A.--For Bias Ply Tires With Designated Section Width of 152 mm (6 Inches) and Above

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cord material 32 psi 36 psi 40 psi 240 kPa 280 kPa 300 kPa 340 kPa

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rayon:

(in-lbs)................................................. 1,650 2,574 3,300 1,650 3,300 1,650 3,300

(joules)................................................. 186 291 373 186 373 186 373

Nylon or polyester:

(in-lbs)................................................. 2,600 3,900 5,200 2,600 5,200 2,600 5,200

(joules)................................................. 294 441 588 294 588 294 588

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table I-B.--For Bias Ply Tires With Designated Section Width Below 152 mm (6 Inches)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cord material 32 psi 36 psi 40 psi 240 kPa 280 kPa 300 kPa 340 kPA

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rayon:

(in-lbs)................................................. 1,000 1,875 2,500 1,000 2,500 1,000 2,500

(joules)................................................. 113 212 282 113 282 113 282

Nylon or polyester:

(in-lbs)................................................. 1,950 2,925 3,900 1,950 3,900 1,950 3,900

(joules)................................................. 220 330 441 220 441 220 441

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table I-C.--For Radial Ply Tires

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Maximum permissible inflation

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tires other than CT tires CT tires

Size designation -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

psi kPa kPa

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

32 36 40 240 280 300 340 350 290 330 350 390

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Below 160 mm:

(in-lbs)................................ 1,950 2,925 3,900 1,950 3,900 1,950 3,900 1,950 1,950 3,900 1,950 3,900

(joules)................................ 220 330 441 220 441 220 441 220 220 441 220 441

160 mm or above:

(in-lbs)................................ 2,600 3,900 5,200 2,600 5,200 2,600 5,200 2,600 2,600 5,200 2,600 5,200

(joules)................................ 294 441 588 294 588 294 588 294 294 588 294 588

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table I-D.--For Tires With 420 kPa (60 psi) Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure and Maximum Load Rating 399

kg (880 lb) and Above

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cord material Inch-pounds joules (J)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rayon................................................. 1,650 inch pounds 186 joules (J).

Nylon or Polyester.................................... 2,600 inch pounds 294 joules (J).

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table I-E.--For Tires With 420 kPa (60 psi) Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure and Maximum Load Rating Below

399 kg (880 lb)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cord material Inch-pounds joules (J)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rayon................................................. 1,000 inch pounds 113 joules (J).

Nylon or Polyester.................................... 1,950 inch pounds 220 joules (J).

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

5. Section 571.117 is amended by revising S6.3 to read as follows:

Sec. 571.117 Standard No. 117, Retreaded pneumatic tires.

* * * * *

[[Page 28920]]

S6.3 Each retreaded tire shall bear permanent labeling through

molding, branding, or other method that will produce a permanent label,

or through the retention of the original casing labeling, in at least

one location on the tire sidewall, in letters and numbers not less than

2 mm (0.078 inch) high, consisting of the following information:

* * * * *

6. In Sec. 571.117, Table I--``Plies'' is revised to read as

follows:

Table I.--Plies

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2ply-4ply (4 ply rating) 4 ply (6 ply rating) 4 ply (8 ply rating)

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Maximum load Maximum Maximum load Maximum Maximum load Maximum

Tire Size ------------------ Inflation ------------------ Inflation ------------------ Inflation

Pressure Pressure Pressure

lb kg ------------------ lb kg ------------------ lb kg -----------------

psi kPa psi kPa psi kPa

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

6.00-13..................................... 1010 458 32 220 1080 499 36 250 1140 517 40 275

6.50-13..................................... 1150 552 32 220 1230 558 36 250 1300 590 40 275

7.00-13..................................... 1270 576 32 220 1360 617 36 250 1440 653 40 275

6.45-14..................................... 1120 508 32 220 1200 544 36 250 1270 576 40 275

6.95-14..................................... 1230 558 32 220 1310 594 36 250 1390 630 40 275

7.35-14..................................... 1360 617 32 220 1450 658 36 250 1540 698 40 275

7.75-14..................................... 1500 680 32 220 1600 726 36 250 1690 767 40 275

8.25-14..................................... 1620 735 32 220 1730 785 36 250 1830 830 40 275

8.55-14..................................... 1770 803 32 220 1890 857 36 250 2000 907 40 275

8.85-14..................................... 1860 844 32 220 1990 903 36 250 2100 953 40 275

5.60-15..................................... 0970 440 32 220 1040 472 36 250 1105 501 40 275

5.90-15..................................... 1050 476 32 220 1130 513 36 250 1200 544 40 275

6.85-15..................................... 1230 558 32 220 1320 599 36 250 1390 630 40 275

7.35-15..................................... 1390 630 32 220 1480 671 36 250 1570 712 40 275

7.75-15..................................... 1490 676 32 220 1590 721 36 250 1690 767 40 275

8.15-15..................................... 1610 730 32 220 1720 780 36 250 1820 826 40 275

8.25-15..................................... 1620 735 32 220 1730 785 36 250 1830 830 40 275

8.45-15..................................... 1740 789 32 220 1860 844 36 250 1970 894 40 275

8.55-15..................................... 1770 803 32 220 1890 857 36 250 2000 907 40 275

8.85-15..................................... 1860 844 32 220 1980 898 36 250 2100 953 40 275

9.00-15..................................... 1900 862 32 220 2030 721 36 250 2150 975 40 275

9.15-15..................................... 1970 894 32 220 2100 953 36 250 2230 1012 40 275

8.90-15..................................... 2210 1002 32 220 2360 1070 36 250 2500 1134 40 275

A70-13...................................... 1060 481 32 220 1130 513 36 250 1200 544 40 275

D70-13...................................... 1320 599 32 220 1410 640 36 250 1490 676 40 275

D70-14...................................... 1320 599 32 220 1410 640 36 250 1490 676 40 275

E70-14...................................... 1400 635 32 220 1490 676 36 250 1580 717 40 275

F70-14...................................... 1500 680 32 220 1610 730 36 250 1700 771 40 275

G70-14...................................... 1620 735 32 220 1730 785 36 250 1830 830 40 275

H70-14...................................... 177 803 32 220 1890 857 36 250 2010 912 40 275

J70-14...................................... 1860 844 32 220 1980 898 36 250 2100 953 40 275

L70-14...................................... 1970 894 32 220 2180 989 36 250 2230 1012 40 275

C70-15...................................... 1230 558 32 220 1320 599 36 250 1390 630 40 275

D70-15...................................... 1320 599 32 220 1410 640 36 250 1490 676 40 275

E70-15...................................... 1400 635 32 220 1490 676 36 250 1580 717 40 275

F70-15...................................... 1500 680 32 220 1610 730 36 250 1700 771 40 275

G70-15...................................... 1620 735 32 220 1730 785 36 250 1830 830 40 275

H70-15...................................... 1770 803 32 220 1890 857 36 250 2010 912 40 275

J70-15...................................... 1860 844 32 220 1980 898 36 250 2100 953 40 275

K70-15...................................... 1900 862 32 220 2030 721 36 250 2150 975 40 275

L70-15...................................... 1970 894 32 220 2100 953 36 250 2230 1012 40 275

165-13...................................... 1050 476 32 220 1130 513 36 250 1200 544 40 275

175-13...................................... 1150 552 32 220 1240 562 36 250 1350 612 40 275

185-13...................................... 1270 576 32 220 1390 630 36 250 1510 685 40 275

155R13...................................... 950 431 32 220 1015 460 36 250 1075 488 40 275

155R14...................................... 1010 458 32 220 1080 499 36 250 1140 517 40 275

155R14...................................... 1015 460 32 220 1085 492 36 250 1150 552 40 275

165R13...................................... 1010 458 32 220 1080 499 36 250 1140 517 40 275

165R14...................................... 1120 508 32 220 1200 544 36 250 1370 621 40 275

165R15...................................... 1130 513 32 220 1200 544 36 250 1270 576 40 275

175R14...................................... 1230 558 32 220 1310 594 36 250 1390 630 40 275

185R14...................................... 1360 617 32 220 1450 658 36 250 1540 698 40 275

185/70R13................................... 1090 494 32 220 1140 517 36 250 1190 540 40 275

145-14 1.................................... 865 392 32 220 905 411 36 250 935 424 40 275

145-15...................................... 895 406 32 220 940 426 36 250 975 442 40 275

195-15...................................... 1550 703 32 220 1680 762 36 250 1820 826 40 275

205-15...................................... 1770 803 32 220 1840 835 36 250 2000 907 40 275

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 Dash Radial--Not an ``R'' Radial.

[[Page 28921]]

7. Section 571.119 is amended by revising S6.3; revising S6.4;

revising in S6.5, the introductory paragraph and paragraphs (d) and

(e); revising S7.1.2; revising in S7.2, paragraph (c); revising in

S7.3, paragraphs (c), (e), and (f); and revising in S7.4, paragraph (c)

to read as follows:

Sec. 571.119 Standard No. 119, New pneumatic tires for vehicles other

than passenger cars.

* * * * *

S6.3 High speed performance. When tested in accordance with the

procedures of S7.3, a tire shall meet the requirements set forth in

S6.1.1 and S6.1.2(a) and (b). However, this requirement applies only to

motorcycle tires and to non-speed-restricted tires of nominal rim

diameter code 14.5 or less marked load range A, B, C, or D.

S6.4 Treadwear indicators. Except as specified in this paragraph,

each tire shall have at least six treadwear indicators spaced

approximately equally around the circumference of the tire that enable

a person inspecting the tire to determine visually whether the tire has

worn to a tread depth of 1.6 mm (one-sixteenth of an inch). Tires with

a rim diameter code of 12 or smaller shall have at least three such

treadwear indicators. Motorcycle tires shall have at least three such

indicators which permit visual determination that the tire has worn to

a tread depth of 0.8 mm (one-thirty-second of an inch).

S6.5 Tire markings. Except as specified in this paragraph, each

tire shall be marked on each sidewall with the information specified in

paragraphs (a) through (j) of this section. The markings shall be

placed between the maximum section width (exclusive of sidewall

decorations or curb ribs) and the bead on at least one sidewall, unless

the maximum section width of the tire is located in an area which is

not more than one-fourth of the distance from the bead to the shoulder

of the tire. If the maximum section width falls within that area, the

markings shall appear between the bead and a point one-half the

distance from the bead to the shoulder of the tire, on at least one

sidewall. The markings shall be in letters and numerals not less than 2

mm (0.078 inch) high and raised above or sunk below the tire surface

not less that 0.4 mm (0.015 inch), except that the marking depth shall

be not less than 0.25mm (0.010 inch) in the case of motorcycle tires.

The tire identification and the DOT symbol labeling shall comply with

part 574 of this chapter. Markings may appear on only one sidewall and

the entire sidewall area may be used in the case of motorcycle tires

and recreational, boat, baggage, and special trailer tires.

* * * * *

(d) The maximum load rating and corresponding inflation pressure of

the tire, shown as follows:

(Mark on tires rated for single and dual load): Max load single

____kg (____lb) at ____kPa (____psi) cold. Max load dual ____kg

(____lb) at ____kPa (____psi) cold.

(Mark on tires rated only for single load): Max load ____kg

(____lb) at ____kPa (____psi) cold.

(e) The speed restriction of the tire, if 88 km/h (55 mph) or less,

shown as follows:

Max speed ____km/h (____mph).

* * * * *

S7.1.2 The tire must be capable of meeting the requirements of

S7.2 and S7.4 when conditioned to a temperature of 35 deg. C (95 deg.

F) for 3 hours before the test is conducted, and with an ambient

temperature maintained at 35 deg. C (95 deg. F) during all phases of

testing. The tire must be capable of meeting the requirements of S7.3

when conditioned at a temperature of 21 deg. C (70 deg. F) for 3 hours

before the test is conducted.

S7.2 Endurance.

* * * * *

(c) Mount the tire-rim assembly on an axle and press it against a

flat-faced steel test wheel that is 1708 mm (67.23 inches) in diameter

and at least as wide as the tread of the tire.

* * * * *

S7.3 Strength.

* * * * *

(c) Force a cylindrical steel plunger, with a hemispherical end and

of the diameter specified in Table I for the tire size, perpendicularly

into a raised tread element as near as possible to the centerline of

the tread, at a rate of 50 mm (2 inches) per minute, until the tire

breaks or the plunger is stopped by the rim.

* * * * *

(e) Repeat the plunger application at 72 deg. intervals around the

circumference of the tire, until five measurements are made. However,

in the case of tires of 12 inch rim diameter code or smaller, repeat

the plunger application at 120 deg. intervals around the circumference

of the tire, until three measurements are made.

(f) Compute the breaking energy for each test point by one of the

two following formulas:

(1) W = [(F x P)/2] x 10-3 (joules)

Where:

W = Breaking energy (in joules) (kJ)

F = Force in newtons (N) and

P = Penetration in millimeters (mm), or;

(2) W = (FP/2)

Where:

W = Breaking energy in inch-pounds,

F = Force in pounds,

P = Penetration in inches.

* * * * *

S7.4 High speed performance.

* * * * *

(c) Remove the load, allow the tire to cool to 35 deg. C (95 deg.

F), and then adjust the pressure to that marked on the tire for single

tire use.

* * * * *

8. In Sec. 571.119, Table I--``Strength Test Plunger Diameter'',

Table II--``Minimum Static Breaking Energy (Inch-Pounds)'', and Table

III--``Endurance Test Schedule'' that follow paragraph (e) of S7.4 is

revised to read as follows:

Table I.--Strength Test Plunger Diameter

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Plunger diameter

-------------------------

(mm) (inches)

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tire type:

Light truck............................... 19.05 \3/4\

Motorcycle................................ ........... \5/16\

Tires for 12 rim diameter code or smaller

rims except motorcycle................... 19.05 \3/4\

Tires other than the above types:

Tubeless:

17.5 diameter code or smaller rims.... 19.05 \3/4\

Larger than 17.5 rim diameter code rims:

Load range F or less.................. 31.75 1\1/4\

Load range over F..................... 38.10 1\1/2\

[[Page 28922]]

Tube type:

Load range F or less.................. 31.75 1\1/4\

Load range over F..................... 38.10 1\1/2\

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table II.--Minimum Static Breaking Energy (Joules (J)* and Inch-Pounds (inch-lbs))

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Load range All 12 rim Light truck 17.5 Tube type Tubeless Tube type Tubeless

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- diameter code or rim diameter -----------------------------------------------------------------------

Tire characteristic Motorcycle smaller rim size code or smaller

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- rim tubeless 1\1/ 1\1/

\5/ ------------------ 4\'' inch- 2\'' inch-

16\'' \3/4\'' \3/4\'' 31.75 J inch- J lbs 38.10 J inch- J lbs

Plunger diameter (mm and inches) 7.94 J inch- 19.05 J inch- 19.05 J inch- lbs lbs

lbs lbs lbs

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A................................................................. 16 150 67 600 225 2,000 ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... .......

B................................................................. 33 300 135 1,200 293 2,600 ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... .......

C................................................................. 45 400 203 1,800 361 3,200 768 6,800 576 5,100 ....... ....... ....... .......

D................................................................. ....... ....... 271 2,400 514 4,550 892 7,900 734 6,500 ....... ....... ....... .......

E................................................................. ....... ....... 338 3,000 576 5,100 1,412 12,500 971 8,600 ....... ....... ....... .......

F................................................................. ....... ....... 406 3,600 644 5,700 1,785 15,800 1,412 12,500 ....... ....... ....... .......

G................................................................. ....... ....... ....... ....... 711 6,300 ....... ....... ....... ....... 2,282 20,200 1,694 15,000

H................................................................. ....... ....... ....... ....... 768 6,800 ....... ....... ....... ....... 2,598 23,000 2,090 18,500

J................................................................. ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... 2,824 25,000 2,203 19,500

L................................................................. ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... 3,050 27,000 ....... .......

M................................................................. ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... 3,220 28,500 ....... .......

N................................................................. ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... 3,389 30,000 ....... .......

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Note: For rayon cord tires, applicable energy values are 60 percent of those in table.

*J measurements are rounded down to the nearest whole number.

Table III.--Endurance Test Schedule

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Test load: Percent of maximum load

rating Total best

Description Load range Test wheel --------------------------------------- revolutions

speed (r/m) II--16 III--24 (thousands)

I--7 hours hours hours

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Speed restricted service:

88 km/h (55 mph)...........................

80 km/h (50 mph)........................... All................................... 125 66 84 101 352.0

C, D.................................. 150 75 97 114 432.0

56 km/h (35 mph)........................... E, F, G, H, J, L...................... 100 66 84 101 282.5

Motorcycle..................................... All................................... 75 66 84 101 211.0

All other...................................... All................................... 250 \1\ 100 \2\ 108 117 510.0

A, B, C, D............................ 250 75 \2\ 97 114 ...........

E..................................... 200 70 88 106 546.0

F..................................... 200 66 84 101 564.0

G..................................... 175 66 84 101 493.5

H, J, L, N............................ 150 66 84 101 423.5

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

\1\ 4 hr., for tire sizes subject to high speed requirements (S6.3).

\2\ 6 hr., for tire sizes subject to high speed requirements (S6.3).

Sec. 571.120 [Amended]

9. Section 571.120 is amended by revising ``TRUCK EXAMPLE--SUITABLE

TIRE-RIM CHOICE'' at the end of S5.3.2, and before S5.3.3, to read as

follows:

S5.3.2. Rims.

* * * * *

TRUCK EXAMPLE--SUITABLE TIRE-RIM CHOICE

GVWR: 7,840 KG (17,289 LB)

GAWR: FRONT--2,850 KG (6,280 LB) WITH 7.50-20(D) TIRES, 20 X 6.00

RIMS AT 520 KPA (75 PSI) COLD SINGLE

GAWR: REAR--4,990 KG (11,000 LB) WITH 7.50-20(D) TIRES, 20 X 6.00

RIMS, AT 450 KPA (65 PSI) COLD DUAL

GVWR: 13,280 KG (29,279 LB)

GAWR: FRONT--4,826 KG (10,640 LB) WITH 10.00-20(F) TIRES, 20 X 7.50

RIMS, AT 620 KPA (90 PSI) COLD SINGLE

GAWR: REAR--8,454 KG (18,639 LB) WITH 10.00-20(F) TIRES, 20 X 2.70

RIMS, AT 550 KPA (80 PSI) COLD DUAL

* * * * *

Issued: May 13, 1998.

Ricardo Martinez,

Administrator.

[FR Doc. 98-13432 Filed 5-26-98; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 4910-59-P