Lesson 3/Learning Event 2
The continuous, or channel-type, beadlock is a solid band of steel which is inserted in
position between the tire beads. Flaps are not required with the channel-type beadlock.
The hinged beadlock will compress and can be inserted and positioned between the tire
beads more easily. Flaps are not necessary with the hinged beadlock.
The segmental, or spacer-block, beadlock has blocks of metal which are fastened together
with a flexible steel band. The flexible band allows the beadlock to be collapsed to
remove it and install it. The segmental beadlock requires a flap to protect the tube.
IDENTIFICATION OF TIRES
Unit vehicles will enter the shop for scheduled or unscheduled maintenance. During
these maintenance periods, the mechanic should inspect the vehicle tires for
serviceability. Sometimes the vehicle operators will call on unit repairers for assistance
with inspections.
Just as the type and size of tires vary on civilian vehicles, so do the tires used on military
vehicles. Commercial-type vehicles use the same type of tires as civilian vehicles. These
tires have a regular tread that gives maximum mileage and quiet operation. The regular
tread is used by sedans, trucks, and buses on hard-surface roads. On many military posts,
administrative motor pools install commercial-type snow tires on commercial vehicles
during the winter months. This type of tire has a special tread for use on the driving
wheels to provide greater traction in snow or mud.
Since a tactical vehicle may be required to operate off the road at any time, and all wheels
are able to drive, the nondirectional mud and snow tires are mounted on the vehicle all
year round.
Radial. Radial tires are constructed with casing plies perpendicular to the tread direction,
with several layers of tread-reinforcing plies (steel or fabric) just under the tread area.
This construction permits flexing of the tire with a minimum of tread distortion, better
traction, and a softer ride.
Bias. Bias-ply tires are constructed of rayon, nylon, or polyester casing plies in a
crisscross pattern wrapped around steel bead wires. These bead wires prevent the tire
from opening up and separating from the rim at high speeds. The casing plies give the
tire its shape. This construction is used today for standard commercial tires.
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