Vehicle Damage Warnings

1. Follow the safety procedures and obtain safety literature from the wheel manufacturer, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). If you have any questions, consult the distributor or manufacturer directly. The load-carrying requirements of each vehicle should also be determined before selecting the proper tire/wheel combination.
2. Always remember the weakest weight-carrying component of the vehicle tire, wheel or bearings determines the overall maximum and safe load-carrying capacity for the vehicle.
3. When replacing tires, use the same size, load range, tread type and construction type (radial) as originally installed on the vehicle, or a type that meets Ford specifications for the vehicle.
4. When replacing wheels, use original equipment manufacturer's wheels or equivalent available from a Ford dealer with equivalent capacity, width, offset and mounting configuration as those originally offered on the vehicle.

NOTE: Use of improper replacement wheels or tires may adversely affect ride, handling, load-carrying capacity, wheel bearing life, tire clearance to body and chassis components, vehicle ground clearance, vehicle width and brake cooling.

NOTE: If the tire is to be reinstalled on an original equipment wheel, mark the tire at the valve stem hole so it can be reassembled in the same relative position.

- Inspect and replace damaged or corroded parts. Abuse during road operations or in mounting tires can cause damage that may weaken the parts. Parts that are excessively corroded are weakened. Always inspect for and replace damaged or heavily rusted parts.
- Inspect and remove light rust and other foreign matter. Accumulation of such material on the engagement surfaces of the rim base and side can prevent the proper fit of these parts. Use a rust preventative during mounting to minimize rust.

- CAUTION: Always wear safety goggles or a face shield when performing any buffing operations to prevent injury.

Tires and rims often require a buffing operation before being mounted once the regular service has been made.

- Avoid hammering rims with steel hammers. Small bits of steel may break off the hammer or rim, flying into the eyes (wear safety goggles), face or body. Use rubber-covered, steel-headed hammers wherever possible. Rubber mallets only should be used on tires; although with modern tire changing equipment, no pounding is necessary.