General GMAX RS Performance Radial Tire User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your General GMAX RS Performance Radial Tire, size 255/35ZR19 96Y. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure optimal performance, safety, and longevity of your tires.

The General GMAX RS is an ultra-high-performance summer tire designed for passenger cars and crossovers, offering dynamic handling and strong performance characteristics.

2. Installation

Tire installation should always be performed by a qualified professional using appropriate equipment. Incorrect installation can lead to tire damage, vehicle instability, and serious injury.

2.1 Pre-Installation Checks

• Verify that the tire size, load index, and speed rating match your vehicle's specifications as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
• Inspect the tire for any visible damage or manufacturing defects prior to mounting.
• Ensure the wheel rim is clean, free from damage, and compatible with the tire size.

2.2 Mounting and Balancing

• Mount the tire onto the wheel according to industry standards, paying attention to the directional tread design.
• Balance the tire and wheel assembly to prevent vibrations and ensure even wear.

2.3 Inflation

• Inflate tires to the vehicle manufacturer's recommended pressure, typically found on a placard inside the driver's side door jamb, glove compartment, or owner's manual. Do not exceed the maximum pressure indicated on the tire sidewall.
• Check tire pressure when tires are cold (driven less than one mile).

Image 1: General GMAX RS Performance Radial Tire, showing its tread pattern and sidewall details, mounted on a silver alloy wheel.

3. Operation and Performance

The GMAX RS tire is engineered for ultra-high performance in summer conditions. Its design incorporates advanced technologies for enhanced grip and stability.

3.1 Smart Grip Technology

Features a strong center rib for precise steering response and stable shoulder blocks for maximum grip. The silica-rich summer compound and directional tread grooves are designed to ensure reliable wet grip, directing water away from the tread to reduce the risk of hydroplaning.

3.2 Driving Conditions

• Summer Performance: This tire is optimized for warm weather conditions. Its performance may be significantly reduced in cold temperatures, snow, or ice.
• Wet Handling: The directional tread design efficiently channels water, contributing to improved wet handling and braking.

Image 2: Front view of the General GMAX RS tire, highlighting the directional tread pattern designed for water evacuation.

4. Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for maximizing tire life and ensuring safe driving.

4.1 Tire Pressure

• Check tire pressure monthly, or before long trips, using a reliable pressure gauge.
• Maintain the pressure recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. Under-inflation or over-inflation can lead to uneven wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and compromised handling.

4.2 Tire Rotation

Rotate tires regularly, typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, or as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. This helps promote even tread wear across all four tires.

4.3 Tread Wear Monitoring (Smart Monitor Technology)

The GMAX RS features Smart Monitor Technology, an indicator visible on the tire's center rib. Initially, it reads "REPLACEMENT TIRE MONITOR". As the tire wears, these letters will gradually disappear. When the tire wears to 2/32 of an inch (1.6 mm) tread depth, the indicator will clearly read "REPLACE TIRE", signaling that a tire change is necessary for safety and performance.

Image 3: Close-up view of the GMAX RS tread, illustrating the "REPLACEMENT TIRE MONITOR" text as part of the Smart Monitor Technology.

Image 4: Visual representation of the Smart Monitor Technology, showing how the tread indicator changes from "REPLACEMENT TIRE MONITOR" to "REPLACE TIRE" as the tread wears down to 2/32 inch.

4.4 Alignment and Balancing

Periodically check wheel alignment and balance, especially after hitting potholes or experiencing unusual vibrations. Proper alignment and balance prevent irregular wear and improve handling.

5. Troubleshooting

Addressing common tire issues promptly can prevent further damage and ensure safety.

5.1 Uneven Tread Wear

• Cause: Improper inflation, misaligned wheels, unbalanced tires, or worn suspension components.
• Solution: Check and adjust tire pressure, have wheels aligned and balanced, and inspect suspension.

5.2 Vibrations

• Cause: Unbalanced tires, bent wheel, or worn suspension parts.
• Solution: Have tires re-balanced and wheels inspected.

5.3 Loss of Air Pressure

• Cause: Puncture, valve stem leak, or bead leak.
• Solution: Inspect the tire for punctures, check the valve stem, and have a professional repair or replace the tire.

6. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the General GMAX RS Performance Radial Tire (255/35ZR19 96Y).

7. Warranty and Support

7.1 Warranty Information

The General GMAX RS tire is backed by the General Tire Shield+ Advantage Plan, which includes:

• 72-Month Limited Warranty: Covers manufacturing defects for 72 months from the date of purchase or until the tread wears down to 2/32 inch, whichever comes first.
• 45-Day Customer Satisfaction Trial: Allows for a trial period to ensure satisfaction with the product.
• Road Hazard Coverage: Provides protection against non-repairable damage from road hazards for a specified period.

For complete details regarding terms, conditions, and limitations of the warranty, please refer to the official General Tire warranty documentation or contact General Tire customer service.

Image 5: Overview of the General Tire Shield+ Advantage Plan, detailing warranty and coverage benefits.

7.2 Customer Support

For further assistance, technical questions, or warranty claims, please contact General Tire customer support through their official website or authorized dealers.