Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a butyl tube or natural rubber tube?

Natural rubber is much more resilient and flexible. It is recommended for slower service where a lot of heavy service or flexing is required such as in a forestry application with the tire constantly running over rocks and stumps. Another application is for AG use where low inflation and/or high loading causes more than normal flexing of the tire sidewall. Butyl is recommended for highway usage due to its heat reistance and better air retention.

Is a thicker tube better?

Not usually. For highway applications, thick tubes can build up more heat. For non-highway use, tests have not indicated that thicker tubes last longer in most applications. In the few cases where thicker tubes do increase service life, we offer the heavier gauge butyl "Rear Farm Deluxe Champion" severe service line.

How do I read the date code?

Prior to November, 2006, production dates were coded. From November, 2006 forward, dates are user readable such as "JAN 07". Contact our customer service department for further information on date codes.

Why does a tube fail during or shortly after mounting?

This can be because the tube is too small but is usually due to the inside of the tire and/or rim being rough or proper mounting procedures not being followed. Remove any rust from the rim, lubricate the entire tube with approved mounting lubricant before mounting then inflate, deflate and re-inflate to allow the tube to properly seat.

I have a soft spot in the tube I took out of my tire. What caused this?

Most likely the soft spot was caused by an unapproved mounting lubricant that contains petroleum products.

I can't find the size tube I need can I just use a smaller one?

Maybe, maybe not. The tube cannot perform properly if it is stretched beyond a certain limit. Also, the smaller tube may have the wrong valve or valve offset. Unless the specific size is checked, there is a risk of mounting failure or you may not get normal service.

I have a rear tractor tube with a valve that appears to have been eaten away in service. It was only used for a few months. Wasn't this valve defective from the manufacturer?

No. A number of such failures have been reported, mostly in the northern tier of states and Canada - especially Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois and Indiana. It is believed these failures result from chemicals in oil well brine that is used heavily in this area for ballast anti-freeze. This problem is almost unknow in ohter areas of the country. Filling the tire so that the valve is never out of the solution during its rotation will slow the deterioration. Changing to water / calcium chloride will correct it.

My rear tractor tire went flat and the tube looks like it split around the low sidewall area. What caused this?

This is sometimes caused by a sharp bead toe on the tire cutting the tube. It may be necessary to trim the sharp edge on the bead toe. Verify that the correct rim is in use. Also, increasing inflation pressure or changing to a natural rubber tube may also help.

I have a flat tire and when I removed the tube, the valve was pulled loose. Why did this happen?

There are a number of possible reasons including incorrect application, wrong rim, tire slippage, running the tire flat, etc. that cause the valve to pull out. Contact our customer service department for instructions and a RGA number to return the tube to us. We can usually determine the cause and recommend a solution.

I have a tube that shows surface cracking. What should I do?

Tubes will last many years while mounted in a tire but can deteriorate in a few weeks when exposed to ozone or sunlight, particularly if they are folded. Tubes should be left in a sealed box if possible until mounted. If removed from the box, they should be inflated until no sharp wrinkles are visible and then stored in a sealed bag (black is best). Do not mount a tube that shows signs of surface cracking.

What can I expect from your imported tubes?

We evaluate all our suppliers and only use those who meet our standards. Our experience is that our imported tubes are of very good quality. We offer the same warranty on imported tubes as we do on the tubes that are produced in Russellville, AR.

What does ISO9001 registration mean to Firestone Tube Company?

ISO9001 provides a framework for our Quality Management System (QMS). Through internal and external audits, our QMS is assured of meeting accepted standards for controlling and improving quality. This means defining responsibilities and documenting planning, results, and improvements for all functions connected to quality from raw materials to work-in-process to inspections, shipping, to customer service. Achieving and maintaining ISO9001 registration demonstrates Firestone Tube Company’s commitment to provide its customers with superior quality product and customer service.

What Does ISO 14001 Certification Mean to Firestone Tube Company?

ISO 14001 provides a framework for an Environmental Management System (EMS). An EMS affords one of the most effective ways to reduce environmental risks, meet legal requirements and demonstrate environmental responsibility. Implementing ISO 14001 required Firestone Tube Company to identify aspects of its operations that could impact the environment. Controlling the identified impacts is key to good environmental stewardship. Achieving and maintaining ISO14001 certification demonstrates Firestone Tube Company’s commitment to comply with regulations, prevent pollution, conserve natural resources and promote continual improvement.