Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. will begin production of 63-inch OTR tires during the fourth quarter of 2010. The tires will be produced in a range of sizes and tread depths, including 59/80R63 and 53/80R63 and E3 and E4 tread depths.
“This is a long-term strategic decision that reflects Goodyear’s commitment to deliver products for OTR customers’ changing demands,” says John P. Cavanaugh, vice president of Goodyear’s off-highway tire business.
As part of the action, Goodyear plans to upgrade its OTR tire manufacturing plant in Topeka, Kan., where prep work to build 63-inch tires has already started. (Goodyear's OTR size line-up currently tops out at 57 inches.)
"Demand for high performing quality tires in the 63-inch size, used exclusively on the largest earthmoving and mining equipment, has exceeded supply globally for some time," the company said in a statement issued earlier today, Oct. 28.
"This demand remains strong, even during the current economic slowdown, because of the economic advantages these tires deliver to customers in longer run hours and less downtime."
