Michellin Agribib sidewall cracking / leak

Ken Macfarlane · Mar 1, 2011

I've got a set of unloaded Michellin Agribib's, 18.4x34 on my larger tractor and the sidewalls have been all cracked up since I bought it 2 years ago. These are replacements the previous owner put on about 4 years ago because the last set of michellins cracked the sidewalls too. The fronts were also replaced more recently and haven't cracked yet.

Well one started leaking air on me today sometime during my snowblowing route and I got it on stands before landing on the rim.

I'm planning on tubing the tire to get a little more life out of it, I'm not worrying about a complete sidewall blow out as the tires run low pressure and the cracking is only around the little bulges that all michellin's have.

Anything else I can do short term? I'm gonna see what the michellin dealer says. The tread is probably at 75%.

Uncle Ernice · Mar 1, 2011

You could try a boot Ken but I doubt it will stay in place with all the side wall flex. A gallon or two of slime might seal it but again sidewall flex is against it staying fixed.
The tube is definetly your best bet.

rustyfarmall · Mar 1, 2011

I'd for certain contact the dealer, and if you get no staisfaction there, go straight to the top at Michelin. A 4 year old tractor tire SHOULD NOT be deteriorating like that.

TomR Ont · Mar 1, 2011

Ken Macfarlane,
It's probably a little late now, but get some vinyl and put it over them when not in use to slowdown the cracking. (like travel trailers)

If you decide to load the new tires when you get them, make sure the valves will stand up to the calcium. both my stems got eat up in 1 season and no warranty. (from a tire shop they said china crap, can't warranty it)

JDseller · Mar 1, 2011

That side wall problem is common on these tires. Continental tires have this same issue too. Have some on the front of a JD 6400 loader tractor they are cracking on the inside and pinching the tubes. Half tread and just five years old. Out of warranty. I really like the tread wear and bite but I will not buy anymore of them.

Ken Macfarlane · Mar 1, 2011

Dealer gave the number at Michellin to talk to re prorating agribibs.
I'd rather not buy any tires, these suckers have barely any wear!

hd6gtom · Mar 1, 2011

Ken there should be a Michlin farm tire adjuster in your area. I had to get out of the tire business just as michlin was starting to come into our area. The guys at the shop put on quite a few of them. I got to talk to the Michlin area rep a couple of times. He seemed to be a good guy and acted like he would take care of any problems that came up. Just got off the phone with the guys at the shop, they said he took care of all problems. Good luck

Michellin Agribib sidewall cracking / leak

Ken Macfarlane

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Uncle Ernice

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rustyfarmall

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TomR Ont

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JDseller

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Ken Macfarlane

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hd6gtom

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