Pressure washing tyres

G'day all, just been reading an article in the Adelaide Advertiser motoring section 27/01/07 relating to pressure washing tyres.

I thought it was quite interesting as I am guilty of blasting all the $h!t off the tyres.
Maybe food for thought.
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Adelaide Advertiser 27/01/2007

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Under pressure

UK TYRE safety organisation TyreSafe has warned of a potential risks involving high pressure car cleaners.

The organisation says there is growing evidence that pressure washers can cause tyre sidewall damage.

The high pressure jet can cause sidewall damage and degradation, particularly if the water is heated or if the pressurised water is applied for an extended period.

A recent TyreSafe survey found over 80 per cent of drivers were unaware of the impact that pressure washing can have on their tyres and the danger posed.

TyreSafe says if a washer nozzle is held close to a tyre at very high pressure, serious damage can occur in just five seconds.

TyreSafe has suggested the following tips for motorists:

IDEALLY, a light to medium duty pressure washer should be used (110 bar or less).

THE washer jet nozzle should be kept at least 20cm from the tyre surface.

ALWAYS use a fan nozzle to clean tyres, rather than a circular nozzle.

PREVENT prolonged exposure to a specific area of the tyre.

AVOID aiming the water jet directly at the join between the tyre and the wheel rim.

Dave