Wednesday, May 20, 2026

unusual front tire situation... is that a wire cage to prevent problems, or improve traction for steering?

2 comments:

  1. I believe those are "Re-Tyers". An early form of retreading worn tires. At around the tire-rim bead area, you can see the cinch cord that holds it in place. Charles Gates, founder of The Gates Rubber Company, devised a product that was made of halter leather, a strong and durable material he developed for his "Unbreakable" horse halters. The face of the tire was laced with fittments which were held in place by metal studs through the leather face. The ease of procurement and installation provided superior traction and durability in lieu of replacing a worn tire. Any individual could them by mail-order and were money back guaranteed quality and performance. This was one of Charlie's early ventures into the emerging automotive market.

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    1. thank you! You reminded me! I covered these in https://justacarguy.blogspot.com/2021/03/nice-way-to-advertise.html "Durable Tread" tire cover!

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