Yokohama Recalls Truck Tyres

Yokohama Tire Corp. is recalling 69 Yokohama brand medium truck tyres because of shoulder area compound problems, Tire Review has reported. The company said the defective tyres contain a “non-specified compound in the shoulder area of the tyre” and “during extended running, the shoulder area of the tyre could lift, resulting in degraded ride and handling” and potentially a tread separation.

The tyres were all produced by GTY Tire Co.’s plant in Mount Vernon, Illinois, between 12 and 18 December 2004, and carry a date code of 5004. GTY is a joint venture operation between Yokohama, Continental Tire North America and Toyo Tire USA Inc.

The recall notice applies to steer, drive and trailer axle products including the Yokohama RY023, RY587, RY617 and TY517 in conventional and low profile sizes. More information can be found through the Yokohama website.

Yokohama explained that 142 GTY-produced tyres are affected by the voluntary recall, but only 69 are Yokohama-branded. Yokohama said there have been no reports of failures, accidents or injuries due to the defect, which it said was “detected within one week of manufacturer.” The recalled tyres will be replaced free of charge until 31 July, after that the tyre will be replaced on a pro-rata basis.