1981 Volvo DL, GL and GLT
being replaced. Using a tire of the same make (manufacturer) will prevent altering the driving
characteristics of the vehicle.
How to improve tire economy
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Maintain correct tire pressure.
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Drive smoothly: avoid fast starts, hard braking and tire screeching.
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Tire wear increases with speed.
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Do not change wheel location unless necessary.
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Correct front wheel alignment is very important.
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Unbalanced wheels impair tire economy and driving comfort.
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Hitting curbs can damage the tires permanently.
Winter Season
Radial snow tires are recommended for winter driving.
Tire chains can be used on the rear wheels if the chains do not project too far from the tire and chafe
against the brake caliper or other components.
Strap-on emergency chains must not be used since the space between the brake caliper and the
wheel rim is inadequate.
Special Spare
The spare wheel for your car is referred to as a "Special Spare". This name is embossed on the tire.
On 2 and 4-door models, the "Special Spare" wheel contains a 4 ply rating tire and on the wagon models
an 8 ply rating tire.
Tire pressure must be 36 psi (250 kPa) on a 4 ply rating tire and 40 psi (280 kPa) on a 8 ply rating tire
irrespective of load or where the wheel is installed. In the event of a damage to this tire a new one can be
purchased from your Volvo dealer.
Wear indicator
The tires have a so-called "wear indicator" in the form of a number of narrow strips running across or
parallel to the tread. When approx. 1/16" = 1.5 mm is left on the tread, these strips show up and indicate
the tire should be replaced.
Tires with less than 1/16" tread have a very poor grip in rain or snow.
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