Proposal for a Council Decision amending Decisions 2001/507/EC and 2001/509/EC with a view to making UN/ECE Regulations 109 and 108 on retreaded tyres compulsory
Date: 2004-12-08
Institutions: European Commission
Subjects: EU law, approval, commercial vehicle, marketing standard, motor car, pneumatic tyre, technical standard

COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES 

Brussels, 6.12.2004 
COM(2004) 774 final 

2004/0271 (AVC) 

Proposal for a 

COUNCIL DECISION 

amending Decisions 2001/507/EC and 2001/509/EC with a view to making UN/ECE 
Regulations 109 and 108 on retreaded tyres compulsory 

(presented by the Commission) 

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EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM  

1. 

RETREADED TYRES WITHIN THE COMMUNITY 

The  purpose  of  this  Decision  is  to  make  compulsory  in  the  Community  the 
provisions  on the approval of the production of retreaded pneumatic tyres intended 
for passenger cars and commercial vehicles included respectively in United Nations 
Economic  Commission  for  Europe  (UN/ECE)  Regulations  N°  108  (Uniform 
provisions  concerning  the  approval  for  the  production  of  retreaded  pneumatic  tyres 
for  motor  vehicles  and  their  trailers)1  and  109  (Uniform  provisions  concerning  the 
approval for the production of retreaded pneumatic tyres for commercial vehicles and 
their trailers)2, as amended. 

As  a  consequence,  Member  States  shall  permit  retreaded  tyres  to  be  placed  on  the 
market  in  the  Community  only  if  they  have  been  manufactured  in  accordance  with 
the requirements laid down in the two Regulations. 

At  present,  there  are  no  compulsory  uniform  provisions  for  the  manufacturing  of 
retreaded  tyres  intended  for  sale  and  entering  into  service  in  the  Community.  It  is 
necessary to prevent the existence of different requirements for the manufacturing of 
retreaded  tyres  in  the  different  Member  States  as  such  divergences  make  the 
commercialisation of these products more difficult, leading to internal trade barriers. 

Retreaded  tyres  constitute  an  important  part  of  the  after-sales  market  within  the 
motor vehicle sector in the Community. Retreaded tyres are intended to increase the 
period  of  use  of  tyres  and  to  extend  the  mileage  of  tyres.  Some  of  their  known 
advantages  are  that  they  provide  the  same  mileage  as  comparable  new  tyres,  while 
maintaining  high  levels  of  performance  and  safety.  In  addition,  this  product  is 
environmentally  friendly  and  provides  energy  savings  as  compared  with  the 
production of new tyres, while its price is lower than that of new tyres. 

The  compulsory  application  of  the  requirements  included  in  the  UN/ECE 
Regulations for the manufacturing of retreaded tyres will contribute towards ensuring 
the quality, integrity and performance of this product. 

2. 

THE UN/ECE SYSTEM AND ITS LEGISLATION ON RETREADED TYRES 

The  “Revised  1958  Agreement”3,  concluded  under  the  auspices  of  the  UN/ECE, 
establishes  the  procedures  for  the  adoption  of  uniform  technical  prescriptions 
regarding new motor vehicles and motor vehicle equipment to be fitted to or used in 
motor vehicles. The Agreement provides for the obligation of its Contracting Parties 

1 
2 
3 

E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505, Rev. 2/Add. 107. 
E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505, Rev. 2/Add. 108. 
Agreement  of  the  United  Nations  Economic  Commission  for  Europe  concerning  the  adoption  of 
uniform technical prescriptions for wheeled vehicles, equipment and parts which can be fitted and/or be 
used on wheeled vehicles and the conditions for reciprocal recognition of approvals granted on the basis 
of  these  prescriptions,  (Revised  1958  Agreement),  published  as  Annex  I  to  Council  Decision 
97/836/EC, OJ L N° 346, 17.12.1997, p. 78. 

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to issue approvals at the manufacturer’s request in accordance with the provisions of 
the  Regulations  annexed  to  it  and  accepted  by  the  Contracting  Parties  and  for  the 
reciprocal  acceptance4  of  approvals  issued  under  these  Regulations.  A  total  of  115 
Regulations have been adopted under the Agreement up to now5. 

The  European  Community  became  a  Contracting  Party  to  the  Revised  1958 
Agreement on 24 March 1998, through Council Decision 97/836/EC6. 

By acceding to the Agreement, the Community acceded immediately to a list of 78 
UN/ECE  Regulations.  The  Community  has  since  acceded  to  20  more  Regulations 
and is examining accession to additional ones. As a result of the EC’s accession to 
these  Regulations,  Member  States,  at  the  manufacturer  request,  must  grant  and 
the 
type-approvals  based  on 
accept 
corresponding EC directives and national law. 

these  Regulations  as  alternatives 

to 

The UN/ECE has adopted two Regulations in the field of retreaded tyres under the 
1958  Agreement,  namely  Regulations  108  and  109.  Both  of  these  Regulations 
entered into force among the Contracting Parties on 23 June 1998. The Community 
acceded  to  both  of  them  on  28  October  2001,  by  virtue  of  Council  Decisions 
2001/509/EC7 and 2001/507/EC8, respectively. 

The  Regulations  provide  measures  concerning  the  technical  performance  and  the 
ongoing  manufacturing  capability  for  the  production  of  retreaded  tyres.  The 
provisions cover the methods used by a manufacturer to produce the tyre and refer to 
the  approval  of  the  retreading  production  unit  rather  than  to  the  approval  of  the 
retreaded tyre itself. 

As  a  result  of  the  Community’s  accession  to  the  Regulations,  Member  States,  if 
requested  by  a  manufacturer,  have  to  issue  an  approval  for  the  manufacturing  of 
retreaded tyres which complies with the relevant Regulation. At the same time, they 
are  required  to  accept  within  their  territory  retreaded  tyres  manufactured  under  the 
conditions provided by these Regulations and coming from other Contracting Parties, 
inside  or  outside  the  Community.  For  instance,  retreaded  tyres  manufactured  by  a 
company  in  Russia  according  to  the  provisions  of  the  Regulations  have  to  be 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

Type  approval  is  only  established  for  vehicle  systems,  parts  and  equipment,  but  not  for  the  entire 
vehicle. 
A  two-thirds  majority  of  Contracting  Parties  present  and  voting  is  required  for  the  adoption  of  the 
Regulations. 
Council Decision of 27 November 1997 with a view to the accession of the European Community to the 
Agreement  of  the  United  Nations  Economic  Commission  for  Europe  concerning  the  adoption  of 
uniform technical prescriptions for wheeled vehicles, equipment and parts which can be fitted and/or be 
used on wheeled vehicles and the conditions for reciprocal recognition of approvals granted on the basis 
of  these  prescriptions  (“Revised  1958  Agreement”),  (Decision  97/836/EC).  OJ  L  346,  17.12.1997,  p. 
78. 
Council  Decision  2001/509/EC  of  26  June  2001  on  the  accession  of  the  European  Community  to 
Regulation 108 of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe concerning the approval for 
the production of retreaded pneumatic tyres for motor vehicles and their trailers, OJ L 183, 6.7.2001, p. 
37. 
Council  Decision  2001/507/EC  of  26  June  2001  on  the  accession  of  the  European  Community  to 
Regulation 109 of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe concerning the approval for 
the  production  of  retreaded  pneumatic  tyres  for  commercial  vehicles  and  their  trailers,  OJ  L  183, 
6.7.2001, p. 35. 

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admitted  in  the  Community,  as  both  Russia  and  the  Community  are  Contracting 
Parties  to  the  1958  Agreement  and  have  accepted  the  application  of  both 
Regulations. 

However, UN/ECE Regulations 108 and 109 are not automatically compulsory in the 
Contracting Parties and therefore, in EC Member States. Some Member States have 
made  compulsory  at  national  level  the  compliance  with  the  requirements  of  the 
Regulations, like France or Spain. However, Member States are free to have in place 
parallel  national  rules  alternative  to  the  provisions  included  in  the  Regulations  and 
differing from one Member State to another. As a result of this, there are no common 
compulsory  rules  on  safety  and  on  the  requirements  for  the  manufacturing  of 
retreaded tyres for the sale and entry into service in the Community. 

3. 

COMMISSION PROPOSAL FOR A DECISION 

The  Council,  in  its  decisions  of  26  June  2001  by  which  the  European  Community 
acceded  to  UN/ECE  Regulations  108  and  109,  announced  the  intention  to  later 
regulate,  through  a  Community  directive,  the  uniform  application  of  both 
Regulations  in  the  Community9.  In  view  of  the  limited  scope  of  the  needed 
regulatory  action,  it  is  appropriate  to  introduce  such  a  provision  by  amending 
Council Decisions 2001/509/EC and 2001/507/EC. 

The proposed Decision will not be integrated in the EC system for the type-approval 
of  motor  vehicles  and  their  trailers  established  by  Directive  70/156/CEE10,  as 
established  in  Recital  3  of  Council  Decisions  2001/509/EC  and  2001/507/EC, 
respectively.  There  are  no  types  of  retreaded  tyres  as  they  are  products 
remanufactured from used tyres. In addition, they are not  new products as  such, as 
they are re-manufactured products and, therefore, they are not put into circulation on 
the market for the first time.  

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Third recital of Council Decision 2001/507/EC of 26 June 2001 and of Council Decision 2001/509/EC 
of 26 June 2001 (see complete reference in footnote 7 and 8). 
Council  Directive  70/156/EEC  of  6  February  1970  on  the  approximation  of  the  laws  of  the  Member 
States relating to the type-approval of motor vehicles and their trailers. OJ L 42, 23.2.1970, p. 1. 

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2004/0271 (AVC) 

Proposal for a 

COUNCIL DECISION 

amending Decisions 2001/507/EC and 2001/509/EC with a view to making UN/ECE 
Regulations 109 and 108 on retreaded tyres compulsory 

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, 

Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, 

Having regard to Council Decision 97/836/EC of 27 November 1997 with a view to accession 
by the European Community to the Agreement of the United Nations Economic Commission 
for Europe (UN/ECE) concerning the adoption of uniform technical prescriptions for wheeled 
vehicles, equipment and parts which can be fitted to and/or be used on wheeled vehicles and 
the  conditions  for  reciprocal  recognition  of  approvals  granted  on  the  basis  of  these 
prescriptions (‘Revised 1958 Agreement’)11, and in particular Article 3(3), the second indent 
of Article 4(2) and Article 4(4) thereof, 

Having regard to the proposal from the Commission12, 

Having regard to the assent of the European Parliament13, 

Whereas: 

(1) 

(2) 

The  UN/ECE  Regulations  109  and  108  lead  to  harmonised  requirements  for  the 
retreading  of  tyres  and  to  a  high  level  of  safety  and  environmental  protection.  They 
enable the free circulation of retreaded tyres. 

By Decision 97/836/EC the Community  became a Contracting Party to the UN/ECE 
Revised  1958  Agreement.  By  Decisions  2001/507/EC14  and  2001/509/EC15  the 
Community acceded to UN/ECE Regulations 109 and 108, respectively. By acceding 
to  those  Regulations,  the  Community  committed  to  accept  them  as  alternatives  to 
Community  legislation,  in  accordance  with  the  provisions  of  Articles  2  and  3  of  the 
Revised  1958  Agreement.  However,  in  order  to  apply  those  Regulations  on  a 
compulsory  basis,  a  provision  to  that  end  must  be  laid  down  in  Community  law 
pursuant to Article 4(4) of Decision 97/836/EC. 

11 
12 
13 
14 
15 

OJ L 346, 17.12.1997, p. 78. 
OJ C , , p. . 
OJ C , , p. . 
OJ L 183, 6.7.2001, p. 35. 
OJ L 183, 6.7.2001, p. 37. 

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(3) 

In  view  of  the  limited  scope  of  the  needed  regulatory  action,  it  is  not  appropriate  to 
provide for the compulsory application of both Regulations by adopting a Directive as 
announced in Decisions 2001/507/EC and 2001/509/EC. 

(4) 

Decisions 2001/507/EC and 2001/509/EC should be amended accordingly, 

HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS: 

Article 1 

Decision 2001/507/EC is amended as follows: 

1. 

The sole Article is replaced by the following: 

“Sole Article 

The  European  Community  shall  accede  to  Regulation  109  of  the  United  Nations  Economic 
Commission  for  Europe  concerning  the  approval  for  the  production  of  retreaded  pneumatic 
tyres for commercial vehicles and their trailers. 

As from (6 months from the date of adoption of this Decision) the provisions of Regulation 
109  as  set  out  in  the  Annex  shall  apply  as  a  compulsory  condition  for  the  placing  on  the 
market in the Community of re-treaded tyres falling under the scope of that Regulation. 

2. 

An Annex as set out in Annex I to this Decision is added. 

Article 2 

Decision 2001/509/EC is amended as follows: 

1. 

The sole Article is replaced by the following: 

“Sole Article 

The  European  Community  shall  accede  to  Regulation  108  of  the  United  Nations  Economic 
Commission  for  Europe  concerning  the  approval  for  the  production  of  retreaded  pneumatic 
tyres for motor vehicles and their trailers. 

As from (6 months from the date of adoption of this Decision) the provisions of Regulation 
108  as  set  out  in  the  Annex  shall  apply  as  a  compulsory  condition  for  the  placing  on  the 
market in the Community of re-treaded tyres falling under the scope of that Regulation. 

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2. 

An Annex as set out in Annex II to this Decision is added. 

Done at Brussels,  

For the Council 
The President 

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ANNEX 1 

Regulation n° 109 
(Text consolidated by the European Commission services) 

E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS 505/Rev.2/Add.108 

E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS 505/Rev.2/Add.108/Corr.1 

E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS 505/Rev.2/Add.108/Amend.1 

E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS 505/Rev.2/Add.108/Amend.1/Corr.1 

UNIFORM PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE APPROVAL FOR THE 
PRODUCTION OF RETREADED PNEUMATIC TYRES FOR COMMERCIAL 
VEHICLES AND THEIR TRAILERS 

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Regulation No. 109 

UNIFORM PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE APPROVAL FOR THE PRODUCTION 

OF RETREADED PNEUMATIC TYRES FOR COMMERCIAL VEHICLES AND THEIR 
TRAILERS 

CONTENTS 

Page 

REGULATION 

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

5. 

6. 

7. 

8. 

9. 

Scope ..................................................................................................................................... 5 

Definitions............................................................................................................................. 5 

Markings.............................................................................................................................. 12 

Application for approval ..................................................................................................... 14 

Approval.............................................................................................................................. 14 

Requirements....................................................................................................................... 16 

Specifications ...................................................................................................................... 21 

Modifications to the approval ............................................................................................. 24 

Conformity of production.................................................................................................... 24 

10. 

Penalties for non-conformity 

of production ....................................................................................................................... 25 

11. 

Production definitely discontinued...................................................................................... 25 

12. 

Names and addresses of technical services 

responsible for conducting approval tests, 

of test laboratories, and of administrative 

departments ......................................................................................................................... 25 

ANNEXES 

Annex 1 

-  Communication concerning the approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal 
of  approval  or  production  definitely  discontinued  of  a  retreading  production 
unit pursuant to Regulation No. 109 

Annex 2 

-  Arrangement of approval mark 

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Annex 3 

-  Arrangement of retread tyre markings 

Annex 4 

-  List of load indices and corresponding load capacities 

Annex 5 

-  Tyre size designation and dimensions 

Annex 6 

-  Method of measuring pneumatic tyres 

Annex 7 

-  Procedure for load/speed endurance tests 

Appendix 1 

-  Endurance-test programme 

Appendix 2 

-  Relationship  between  the  pressure  index  and  units  of 

pressure 

Annex 8 

-  Variation  of  load  capacity  with  speed:  commercial  vehicle  tyres  radial  and 

diagonal ply 

Annex 9 

-  Explanatory figure 

__________ 

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1. 

SCOPE 

This  Regulation  applies  to  the  production  of  retreaded  tyres  intended  to  be  fitted  to 
commercial vehicles and their trailers used on the road. It does not however apply to: 

1.1. 

Retreaded tyres for private (passenger) cars and their trailers. 

1.2. 

Retreaded tyres with a speed capability below 80 km/h.  

1.3. 

Tyres for cycles and motorcycles. 

1.4. 

Tyres originally produced without speed symbols and/or load indices. 

1.5. 

Tyres originally produced without type approval and without either an "E" or "e" mark. 

2. 

DEFINITIONS - See also figure in annex 9 

For the purpose of this Regulation: 

2.1. 

2.2. 

2.2.1. 

2.2.2. 

2.2.3. 

"Range of retreaded pneumatic tyres" - means a range of retreaded pneumatic tyres as quoted 
in paragraph 4.1.4. 

"Structure" of a pneumatic-tyre means the technical characteristics of the tyre's carcass. The 
following structures are distinguished in particular: 

"Diagonal" or "Bias ply" describes a pneumatic-tyre structure in which the ply cords extend 
to the beads and are laid at alternate angles substantially less than 90° to the centreline of the 
tread. 

"Bias  belted"  describes  a  pneumatic-tyre  structure  of  diagonal  (bias-ply)  type  in  which  the 
carcass  is  stabilised  by  a  belt,  comprising  two  or  more  layers  of  substantially  inextensible 
cord material laid at alternate angles close to those of the carcass. 

"Radial" describes a pneumatic-tyre structure in which the ply cords extend to the beads and 
are laid substantially at 90° to the centreline of the tread, the carcass being stabilised by an 
essentially inextensible circumferential belt. 

2.3. 

"Category of use" 

2.3.1.  Normal tyre is a tyre intended for normal road use only. 

2.3.2. 

Special  use  tyre  is  a  tyre intended  for mixed  use,  both  on  and  off  road  and/or  at  restricted 
speed. 

2.3.3. 

Snow tyre is a tyre whose tread pattern, or tread pattern and structure, is primarily designed 
to  ensure,  in  mud  and  fresh  or  melting  snow,  a  performance  better  than  that  of  a  Normal 
Tyre.  The  tread  pattern  of  a  snow  tyre  generally  consists  of  groove  (rib)  and  solid  block 
elements more widely spaced than on a Normal Tyre. 

2.4. 

"Bead" means the part of a pneumatic-tyre which is of such shape and structure as to fit the 
rim and hold the tyre on it. 

2.5. 

"Cord" means the strands forming the fabric of the plies in the pneumatic-tyre. 

2.6. 

"Ply" means a layer of "rubber" coated parallel cords. 

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2.7. 

2.8. 

2.9. 

2.10. 

2.11. 

2.12. 

2.13. 

2.14. 

"Belt" applies to a radial ply or bias belted tyre and means a layer or layers of material or 
materials  underneath  the  tread,  laid  substantially  in  the  direction  of  the  centre  line  of  the 
tread to restrict the carcass in a circumferential direction. 

"Breaker" applies to a diagonal ply tyre and means an intermediate ply between the carcass 
and tread. 

"Protective  breaker"  applies  to  a  radial  ply  tyre  and  means  an  optional  intermediate  ply 
between the tread and the belt to minimize damage to the belt. 

"Chafer" means material in the bead area to protect the carcass against chafing or abrasion 
by the wheel rim.  

"Carcass" means that structural part of a pneumatic-tyre other than the tread and outermost 
"rubber" of the sidewalls which, when inflated, supports the load. 

"Tread" means that part of a pneumatic-tyre which is designed to come into contact with the 
ground, protects the carcass against mechanical damage and contributes to ground adhesion. 

"Sidewall" means the part of a pneumatic tyre between the tread and the area designed to be 
covered by the rim flange. 

"Lower area of tyre" means the area included between the line of maximum section width of 
the tyre and the area designed to be covered by the edge of the rim. 

2.15. 

"Tread groove" means the space between the adjacent ribs or blocks in the tread pattern. 

2.16. 

2.17. 

2.18. 

2.19. 

"Section width " means the linear distance between the outside of the sidewalls of an inflated 
pneumatic-tyre, when fitted to the specified measuring rim, but excluding elevations due to 
labelling (marking), decoration or protective bands or ribs. 

"Overall width" means the linear distance between the outside of the sidewalls of an inflated 
pneumatic-tyre,  when  fitted  to  the  specified  measuring  rim,  and  including  labelling 
(marking), decoration or protective bands or ribs.  

"Section height" means a distance equal to half the difference between the outer diameter of 
the tyre and the nominal rim diameter. 

"Nominal  aspect  ratio"  means  one  hundred  times  the  number  obtained  by  dividing  the 
number expressing the nominal section height by the number expressing the nominal section 
width, both dimensions being in the same units. 

2.20. 

"Outer diameter" means the overall diameter of an inflated, newly retreaded tyre. 

2.21. 

"Tyre size designation" means a designation showing: 

2.21.1.  The nominal section width. This must be expressed in millimetres, except in cases of tyres 
for which the size designation is shown in the first column of the tables in annex 5 to this 
Regulation. 

2.21.2.  The nominal aspect ratio except in case of tyres for which the size designation is shown in 

the first column of the tables in annex 5 to this Regulation. 

2.21.3.  A conventional number "d" (the "d" symbol) denoting the nominal rim diameter of the rim 
and  corresponding  to  its  diameter  expressed  either  by  codes  (numbers  below  100)  or  in 

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millimetres  (numbers  above  100).  Numbers  corresponding  to  both  types  of  measurements 
may be used in the designation. 

2.21.3.1.  The values of the "d" symbols expressed in millimetres are shown below: 

Nominal Rim Diameter Code - "d" 

8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
24 
25 
14.5 
16.5 
17.5 
19.5 
20.5 
22.5 
24.5 
26 
28 
30 

Value of the "d" symbol expressed in 
mm 
203 
229 
254 
279 
305 
330 
356 
381 
406 
432 
457 
483 
508 
533 
559 
610 
635 
368 
419 
445 
495 
521 
572 
622 
660 
711 
762 

2.22. 

2.23. 

2.24. 

"Nominal rim diameter (d)" means the diameter of the rim on which a tyre is designed to be 
mounted. 

"Rim" means the support, either for a tyre-and-tube assembly or for a tubeless tyre, on which 
the tyre beads are seated. 

"Measuring rim" means the rim specified as a 'measuring rim width' or 'design rim width' for 
a  particular  tyre  size  designation  in  any  edition  of  one  or  more  of  the  International  Tyre 
Standards.  

2.25. 

"Test rim" means any rim specified as approved or recommended or permitted in one of the 
International Tyre Standards for a tyre of that size designation and type. 

2.26. 

"International Tyre Standard" means any one of the following standard documents: 

(a) 

The European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation (ETRTO) 1/: 'Standards Manual' 

(b)  The  European  Tyre  and  Rim  Technical  Organisation  (ETRTO)  1/:  'Engineering 

Design Information - obsolete data' 

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(c) 

The Tire and Rim Association Inc. (TRA) 2/: 'Year Book' 

(d)  The Japan Automobile Tire Manufacturers Association (JATMA) 3/: 'Year Book' 

(e) 

The Tyre and Rim Association of Australia (TRAA) 4/: 'Standards Manual' 

(f) 

The Assiciacao Brasileira de Pneus e Aros (ABPA) 5/: 'Manual de Normal Technicas' 

(g)  The Scandinavian Tyre and Rim Organisation (STRO) 6/: 'Data Book' 

2.27. 

"Chunking" means the breaking away of pieces of rubber from the tread. 

2.28. 

"Cord separation" means the parting of the cords from their rubber coating. 

2.29. 

"Ply separation" means the parting of adjacent plies. 

2.30. 

"Tread separation" means the pulling away of the tread from the carcass. 

2.31. 

2.32. 

"Service description" means the specific combination of the load index and speed symbol of 
the tyre. 

"Load index" means a numerical code which indicates the load the tyre can carry at the speed 
corresponding  to  the  associated  speed  symbol  and  when  operated  in  conformity  with  the 
service conditions specified by the manufacturer. A pneumatic tyre can have more than one 
load index to indicate its load capacity when used in single or dual (twin) formation, or to 
indicate an alternative load capacity (Unique point) on which a load variation in accordance 
with paragraph 2.35. and annex 8 to this Regulation is not permitted. 

The list of load indices and the corresponding loads are shown in annex 4 to this Regulation. 

2.33. 

"Speed symbol" means: 

2.33.1.  An alphabetical symbol indicating the speed at which the tyre can carry the load given by the 

associated load index. 

_______________ 

The tyre standards can be obtained from the following addresses: 
1/ 
2/ 
3/ 

ETRTO, 32 Av. Brugmann - Bte 2, B-1060 Brussels, Belgium 
TRA, 175 Montrose West Avenue, Suite 150, Copley, Ohio, 44321 USA 
JATMA,  9th  Floor,  Toranomon  Building  No.  1-12,  1-Chome  Toranomon  Minato-ku, 
Tokyo 105, Japan 
TRAA, Suite 1, Hawthorn House, 795 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122 Australia 
ABPA, Avenida Paulista 244-12° Andar, CEP, 01310 Sao Paulo, SP Brazil 
STRO, Älggatan 48 A, Nb, S-216 15 Malmö, Sweden 

4/ 
5/ 
6/ 

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2.33.2.  The speed symbols and corresponding speeds are as shown in the table below: 

Speed symbol 

Corresponding maximum speed (km/h) 

F 
G 
J 
K 
L 
M 
N 
P 
Q 
R 
S 
T 
U 
H 

80 
90 
100 
110 
120 
130 
140 
150 
160 
170 
180 
190 
200 
210 

2.34. 

2.35. 

2.36. 

2.37. 

"Unique  point"  means  an  additional  service  description,  marked  adjacent  to  the  normal 
service description, but which must not be used for calculating a load capacity variation as 
defined in paragraph 2.35. and in annex 8 to this Regulation. 

"Load-capacity  variation  with  speed"  means  an  alternative  load  capacity  for  the  tyre  when 
used  at  a  speed  different  from  that  indicated  by  the  speed  symbol  in  the  normal  service 
description. The permissible variations are given in the table in annex 8 to this Regulation. 

"Retreading production unit" means a site or group of localized sites where finished retread 
tyres are produced. 

"Retreading"  means  the  generic  term  for  reconditioning  a  used  tyre  by  replacing  the  worn 
tread with new material. It may also include renovation of the outermost sidewall surface and 
replacement  of  the  crown  plies  or  the  protective  breaker.  It  covers  the  following  process 
methods: 

2.37.1. 

"Top capping" - replacement of the tread; 

2.37.2. 

"Re-capping" - replacement of the tread and with the new material extending over part of the 
sidewall; 

2.37.3. 

"Bead to bead" - replacement of the tread and renovation of the sidewall including all or part 
of the lower area of the tyre. 

2.38. 

"Casing" is the worn tyre comprising carcass and remaining tread and sidewall material. 

2.39. 

"Buffing" is the process of removing old material from the casing to prepare the surface for 
the new material. 

2.40. 

"Repair" is the remedial work carried out to damaged casings within recognised limits. 

2.41. 

"Tread material" is a material in a condition suitable for replacing the worn tread. It can be in 
several forms for example: 

2.41.1. 

"Camel-back"  -  pre-cut  lengths  of  material  which  has  been  extruded  to  give  the  required 
cross section profile and subsequently fitted cold to the prepared casing. The new  material 
must be cured. 

EN 

15 

   EN 

 
 
 
 
 
 
2.41.2. 

"Strip-wound" - a ribbon of tread material which is directly extruded and wound on to the 
prepared casing and built up to the required cross sectional contour. The new material must 
be cured. 

2.41.3. 

"Direct extrusion" - tread material extruded to give the required cross sectional profile and 
directly extruded on to the prepared casing. The new material must be cured. 

2.41.4. 

"Pre-cured" - a previously formed and cured tread applied to the prepared casing. The new 
material must be bonded to the casing. 

2.42. 

2.43. 

"Sidewall veneer" is a material used to cover the sidewalls of the casing thereby allowing the 
required markings to be formed. 

"Cushion gum" is a material used as a bonding layer between new tread and casing and for 
repairing minor damage. 

2.44. 

"Cement" is an adhesive solution to hold new materials in place prior to the curing process. 

2.45. 

"Cure"  is  the  term  used  to  describe  the  change  in  physical  properties  of  the  new  material 
which  is  brought  about  usually  by  the  application  of  heat  and  pressure  for  a  set  period  of 
time under controlled conditions. 

3. 

MARKINGS 

3.1. 

3.2. 

An  example  of  the  arrangement  of  retreaded  tyre  markings  is  shown  in  annex  3  to  this 
Regulation. 

Retreaded tyres shall display on both sidewalls in the case of symmetrical tyres and at least 
on the outer sidewall in the case of asymmetrical tyres: 

3.2.1. 

The brand name or trade mark; 

3.2.2. 

The tyre-size designation as defined in paragraph 2.21.; 

3.2.3.  An indication of the structure as follows: 

3.2.3.1.  On  diagonal  (bias-ply)  tyres;  no  indication,  or  the  letter  "D"  placed  in  front  of  the  rim 

diameter marking; 

3.2.3.2.  On radial-ply tyres; the letter "R" placed in front of the rim-diameter marking and optionally 

the word "RADIAL"; 

3.2.3.3.  On  bias  belted  tyres;  the  letter  "B"  placed  in  front  of  the  rim  diameter  marking  and  in 

addition the words "BIAS-BELTED"; 

3.2.4. 

The service description comprising: 

3.2.4.1.  An  indication  of  the  tyre's  nominal  load  capacity/capacities  in  the  form  of  the  load 

index/indices prescribed in paragraph 2.32.; 

3.2.4.2.  An indication of the tyre's nominal speed capability in the form of the symbol prescribed in 

paragraph 2.33.;  

3.2.5. 

If applicable, one alternative service description, the Unique point, comprising: 

EN 

16 

   EN 

 
3.2.5.1.  An  indication  of  the  tyre's  load  capacity/capacities  in  the  form  of  the  load  index/indices 

prescribed in paragraph 2.32.; 

3.2.5.2.  An  indication  of  the  speed  capability  in  the  form  of  the  symbol  prescribed  in 

paragraph 2.33.; 

3.2.6. 

The word "TUBELESS" if the tyre is designed for use without an inner tube. 

3.2.7. 

The inscription M+S or MS or M.S. or M & S in the case of a snow tyre. 

3.2.8. 

The date of retreading as follows: 

3.2.8.1.  Up to 31 December 1999; either as prescribed in paragraph 3.2.8.2. or in the form of a group 
of three digits, the first two showing the week number and the third, the year of the decade of 
manufacture. The date code can cover a period of production from the week indicated by the 
week  number  up  to  and  including  the  week  number  plus  three.  For  example,  the  marking 
"253" could indicate a tyre which was retreaded in weeks 25, 26, 27 or 28 of the year 1993. 

The date code may be marked on one sidewall only. 

3.2.8.2.  As from 1 January 2000; in the form of a group of four digits, the first two showing the week 
number and the second two showing the year in which the tyre was retreaded. The date code 
can  cover  a  period  of  production  from  the  week  indicated  by  the  week  number  up  to  and 
including the week number plus three. For example, the marking "2503" could indicate a tyre 
which was retreaded in weeks 25, 26, 27 or 28 of the year 2003. 

The date code may be marked on one sidewall only. 

3.2.9. 

In  the  case  of  tyres  which  can  be  regrooved,  the  symbol  "  _  "  in  a  circle  at  least  20  mm 
diameter, or the word "REGROOVABLE", moulded into or on to each sidewall. 

3.2.10.  An indication, by the means of the "PSI" index, of the inflation pressure to be adopted for the 
load/speed endurance tests, as explained in annex 7, appendix 2 to this Regulation. 

This indication may be placed on one sidewall only. 

3.2.11.  The term "RETREAD" or "REMOULD" (after 1 January 1999 only the word "RETREAD" 
shall be used). At the request of the retreader, the same term in other languages may also be 
added. 

3.2.12.  The inscription “ET” or “ML” or “MPT” for “Special use tyres”16 

3.3. 

3.4. 

Prior  to  approval  tyres  shall  exhibit  a  free  space  sufficiently  large  to  accommodate  an 
approval mark as referred to in paragraph 5.8. and as shown in annex 2 to this Regulation. 

Following approval, the markings referred to in paragraph 5.8. and as shown in annex 2 to 
this Regulation shall be affixed in the free space referred to in paragraph 3.3. This marking 
may be affixed to one sidewall only. 

16 

This marking shall only be mandatory for tyre types manufactured to this Regulation after the entry into 
force of Supplement 1 to the Regulation. 

EN 

17 

   EN 

 
                                                 
3.5. 

3.6. 

3.7. 

The markings referred to in paragraph 3.2. and the approval mark prescribed in paragraphs 
3.4. and 5.8. shall be clearly legible and shall be moulded on to or into the tyre or shall be 
permanently marked on to the tyre. 

As far as any of the original manufacturer's specifications are still legible after the tyres have 
been retreaded, they shall be regarded as specifications of the retreader for the retreaded tyre. 
If  these  original  specifications  do  not  apply  after  retreading  they  shall  be  completely 
removed. 

The  original  "E"  or  "e"  approval  mark  and  approval  number  and  any  other  subsequent 
retreading  production  unit's  approval  mark  and  number,  if  no  longer  applicable,  shall  be 
removed. 

4. 

APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL 

The following procedures are applicable to the approval of a tyre retreading production unit: 

4.1. 

The application for approval of a retreading production unit shall be submitted by the holder 
of  the  trade  name  or  trade  mark  to  be  applied  to  the  tyre  or  by  his  duly  accredited 
representative. It shall specify: 

4.1.1.  An outline of the structure of the company producing the retreaded tyres. 

4.1.2.  A brief description of the quality management system, which ensures the effective control of 

the tyre retreading procedures to meet the requirements of this Regulation. 

4.1.3. 

The trade names or marks to be applied to the retreaded tyres produced.  

4.1.4. 

The following information in relation to the range of tyres to be retreaded: 

4.1.4.1. 

the range of tyre sizes; 

4.1.4.2. 

the structure of tyres (diagonal or bias ply, bias-belted or radial); 

4.1.4.3. 

the category of use of tyres (normal or snow tyres etc.); 

4.1.4.4. 

the system of retreading and the method of application of the new materials to be used, as 
defined in paragraphs 2.37. and 2.41.; 

4.1.4.5. 

the maximum speed symbol of the tyres to be retreaded; 

4.1.4.6. 

the maximum load index of the tyres to be retreaded; 

4.1.4.7. 

the nominated International Tyre Standard to which the range of tyres conform. 

5. 

APPROVAL 

5.1. 

To  retread  tyres  requires  the  approval  of  the  retreading  production  unit  by  the  approval 
authorities  in  accordance  with  the  requirements  of  this  Regulation.  The  approval  authority 
shall take the necessary measures as described in this Regulation in order to ensure that the 
tyres  retreaded  in  the  respective  production  unit  will  meet  with  the  requirements  stated  in 
this Regulation. The retread production unit shall be fully responsible for ensuring that the 
retreaded  tyres  will  meet  the  requirements  of  this  Regulation  and  that  they  will  perform 
adequately in normal use. 

EN 

18 

   EN 

 
5.2. 

5.3. 

5.4. 

In  addition  to  the  normal  requirements  for  the  initial  assessment  of  the  tyre  retreading 
production  unit,  the  approval  authority  shall  be  satisfied  that  the  procedures,  operation, 
instructions  and  specification  documentation  provided  by  material  suppliers  are  in  a 
language readily understood by the tyre retreading production unit operatives. 

The  approval  authority  shall  ensure  that  the  procedures  and  operations  documentation  for 
each  production  unit  contains  specifications,  appropriate  to  the  repair  materials  and 
processes used, of the limits of repairable damage or penetrations to the tyre carcass, whether 
such damage is existing or is caused during the processes of preparation for retreading. 

Before granting approval the authority must be satisfied that retreaded tyres conform to this 
Regulation  and  that  the  tests  prescribed  in  paragraphs  6.5.  and 6.6.  have  been  successfully 
carried  out  on  at  least  5  and  not  necessarily  more  than  20  samples  of  retreaded  tyres 
representative of the range of tyres produced by the retreading production unit. 

5.5. 

In  the  case  of  each  failure  being  recorded  during  tests,  two  further  samples  of  the  same 
specification tyre shall be tested. 

If  either  or  both  of  these  second  two  samples  fail,  then  a  final  submission  of  two  samples 
shall be tested. 

If  either  or  both  of  the  final  two  samples  fail,  then  the  application  for  approval  of  the 
retreading production unit shall be rejected. 

5.6. 

If  all  the  requirements  of  this  Regulation  are  met,  then  approval  shall  be  granted  and  an 
approval number shall be assigned to each retreading production unit approved. The first two 
digits of this number shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the most recent 
major technical amendments made to the Regulation at the time of issue of the approval. The 
approval number shall be preceded by "109R" signifying that the approval applies to a tyre 
retreaded as prescribed in this Regulation.  

The same authority shall not assign the same number to another production unit covered by 
this Regulation. 

5.7. 

Notice  of  approval  or  of  extension,  refusal  or  withdrawal  of  approval  or  of  production 
definitely discontinued pursuant to this Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to 
the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation, by means of a form conforming to the model 
in annex 1 to this Regulation. 

EN 

19 

   EN 

 
5.8. 

There shall be affixed conspicuously to every retreaded tyre conforming to this Regulation, 
in  the  space  referred  to  in  paragraph  3.3.  and  in  addition  to  the  markings  prescribed  in 
paragraph 3.2., an international approval mark consisting of: 

5.8.1.  A  circle  surrounding  the  letter  "E"  followed  by  the  distinguishing  number  of  the  country 

which granted approval 17; and 

5.8.2.  An approval number as described in paragraph 5.6. 

5.9. 

Annex 2 to this Regulation gives an example of the arrangements of the approval mark. 

6. 

REQUIREMENTS  

6.1. 

Tyres  shall  not  be  accepted  for  first  retread  unless  they have  been  type  approved  and  bear 
either  an  "E"  or  "e"  mark,  except  that  this  requirement  shall  not  be  mandatory  until 
1 January 2000 at the latest. 

6.2. 

Conditions before retreading: 

6.2.1. 

Tyres shall be clean and dry before inspection. 

6.2.2. 

Before  buffing,  each  tyre  shall  be  thoroughly  examined  both  internally  and  externally  to 
ensure its suitability for retreading. 

6.2.3. 

Tyres where damage is visible which has resulted from overload or underinflation shall not 
be retreaded. 

6.2.4. 

Tyres showing any of the following damage shall not be accepted for retreading: 

6.2.4.1.  General: 

(a) 

non repairable rubber cracking extending through to the carcass 

(b) 

carcass break up 

(c) 

appreciable oil or chemical attack 

(d) 

damaged or broken bead core 

17 

1  for  Germany,  2  for  France,  3  for  Italy,  4  for  the  Netherlands,  5 for  Sweden,  6  for  Belgium,  7  for 
Hungary, 8 for the Czech Republic, 9 for Spain, 10 for Yugoslavia, 11 for the United Kingdom, 12 for 
Austria,  13 for  Luxembourg,  14  for  Switzerland,  15  (vacant),  16  for  Norway,  17 for  Finland,  18 for 
Denmark, 19 for Romania, 20 for Poland, 21 for Portugal, 22 for the Russian Federation, 23 for Greece, 
24  for  Ireland,  25 for  Croatia,  26 for  Slovenia,  27  for  Slovakia,  28  for  Belarus,  29 for  Estonia,  30 
(vacant), 31 for Bosnia and Herzegovina, 32 for Latvia, 33 (vacant), 34 for Bulgaria, 35 (vacant), 36 for 
Lithuania,  37  for  Turkey,  38  (vacant),  39  for  Azerbaijan,  40 for  The  former  Yugoslav  Republic  of 
Macedonia, 41 (vacant), 42 for the European Community (Approvals are granted by its Member States 
using their respective ECE symbol), 43 for Japan, 44 (vacant), 45 for Australia, 46 for Ukraine, 47 for 
South Africa and 48 for New Zealand. Subsequent numbers shall be assigned to other countries in the 
chronological  order  in  which  they  ratify  or  accede  to  the  Agreement  Concerning  the  Adoption  of 
Uniform  Technical  Prescriptions  for  Wheeled  Vehicles,  Equipment  and  Parts  which  can  be  Fitted 
and/or  be  Used  on  Wheeled  Vehicles  and  the  Conditions  for  Reciprocal  Recognition  of  Approvals 
Granted on the Basis of these Prescriptions, and the numbers thus assigned shall be communicated by 
the Secretary-General of the United Nations to the Contracting Parties to the Agreement. 

EN 

20 

   EN 

 
                                                 
(e) 

previous repairs of damage outside specified injury limits - see paragraph 5.3. 

6.2.4.2.  Conditions outside specified limits of repairability - see paragraph 5.3: 

(a) 

carcass penetrations or damage after preparation for repair 

(b)  multiple damage too close together 

(c) 

substantial deterioration of inner liner 

(d) 

bead damage 

(e) 

exposed carcass cords 

(f) 

loose cords 

(g) 

belt ply separation 

(h) 

permanently deformed or kinked (steel) carcass cords 

(i) 

circumferential cracking above the bead 

(j) 

corroded steel cord or bead wire 

6.3. 

Preparation: 

6.3.1.  After buffing, and before the application of new material, each tyre shall be thoroughly re-

examined, at least externally, to ensure its continued suitability for retreading. 

6.3.2. 

The entire surface to which new material is to be applied shall have been prepared without 
overheating.  The  buffed  surface  texture  shall  not  contain  deep  buffing  lacerations  or  loose 
material. 

6.3.3.  Where  precured  material  is  to  be  used  the  contours  of  the  prepared  area  shall  meet  the 

requirements of the material manufacturer. 

6.3.4.  Damage caused during buffing must not exceed defined limits of repair, see paragraph 5.3., 

and must be repaired.  

6.3.5. 

6.3.6. 

Buffing damage to diagonal ply tyres shall not extend beyond the outermost carcass ply in 
the  crown  area.  It  shall  be  assumed  that  the  first  ply  encountered  is  a  carcass  ply  unless  a 
breaker can be positively identified. If a breaker is fitted, localized damage is permissible. 

Localized buffing damage to the belt of radial tyres is permissible. For larger damage it  is 
permissible for the complete belt or sections of the belt to be replaced. Where a protective 
breaker is fitted, and can be positively identified as such, if it is damaged it is permissible to 
remove it and it need not be renewed. 

6.3.7. 

Exposed steel parts shall be treated as soon as possible with appropriate material as defined 
by the manufacturer of that appropriate material. 

6.4. 

Retreading: 

6.4.1. 

The  retreader  must  ensure  that  either  the  manufacturer  or  the  supplier  of  repair  materials, 
including patches, is responsible for the following: 

EN 

21 

   EN 

 
(a) 

(b) 

(c) 

(d) 

defining  method(s)  of  application  and  storage,  if  requested  by  the  retreader,  in  the 
national language of the country in which the materials are to be used; 

defining  limits  of  damage  for  which  the  materials  are  designed,  if  requested  by  the 
retreader, in the national language of the country in which the materials are to be used; 

ensuring  that  reinforced  patches  for  tyres,  if  correctly  applied  in  carcass  repairs,  are 
suitable for the purpose; 

ensuring  that  the  patches  are  capable  of  withstanding  twice  the  maximum  inflation 
pressure as given by the tyre manufacturer; 

(e) 

ensuring the suitability of any other repair materials for the service intended. 

6.4.2. 

6.4.3. 

6.4.4. 

6.4.5. 

6.4.6. 

6.4.7. 

The  retreader  shall  be  responsible  for  the  correct  application  of  the  repair  material  and  for 
ensuring that the repair is free from any defects which may affect the satisfactory service life 
of the tyre. 

The area surrounding a reinforced repair to a sidewall or shoulder of a radial ply tyre may 
bulge  slightly  when  the  tyre  is  fitted  and  inflated  to  the  recommended  operating  pressure. 
Reinforced  repair  materials  with  physical  properties  that  restrict  the  height  of  the  bulge  to 
not more than 4 mm shall be used. 

The retreader shall ensure that either the manufacturer or the supplier of tread and sidewall 
material issues specifications concerning the conditions of storage and use of the material in 
order to guarantee the material's qualities. If requested by the retreader, this information shall 
be in the national language of the country in which the materials are to be used. 

The  retreader  must  ensure  that  the  repair  material  and/or  compound  is  documented  in  a 
manufacturer's  or  supplier's  certificate.  The  material  compound  must  be  suitable  for  the 
intended use of the tyre. 

The processed tyre shall be cured as soon as possible after the completion of all repairs and 
building-up  operations  and  at  the  latest  according  to  the  material  manufacturer's 
specifications. 

The  tyre  shall  be  cured  for  the  length  of  time  and  at  the  temperature  and  pressure, 
appropriate  to,  and  specified  for,  the  materials  and  processing  equipment  used.  The 
dimensions  of  the  mould  must  be  appropriate  to  the  thickness  of  the  new  material  and  the 
size of the buffed tyre. 

6.4.8. 

The  thickness  of  original  material  after  buffing  and  the  average  thickness  of  any  new 
material under the tread pattern after retreading shall be as given in paragraphs 6.4.8.1. and 
6.4.8.2.  

6.4.8.1.  For radial ply tyres (mm): 

3 ≤ (A+B) ≤ 13 

(minimum 3.0mm; maximum 13.0 mm) 

A ≥ 2  (minimum 2.0 mm) 

B ≥ 0  (minimum 0.0 mm) 

EN 

22 

   EN 

 
P.D.  = 

Pattern depth 

X 

A 

B 

= 

= 

= 

Buff line 

Average thickness of new material under pattern 

Minimum thickness of original material above belt after buffing 

6.4.8.2.  For diagonal (Bias-ply) tyres: 

The thickness of original material above the breaker shall be ≥ 0.80 mm; 

The average thickness of new material above the buffed casing line shall be ≥ 2.00 mm; 

The combined thickness of original and new material beneath the base of the grooves of the 
tread pattern shall be ≥ 3.00 mm and ≤ 13.00 mm. 

6.4.9. 

The service description of a retreaded tyre shall not show either a higher speed symbol or a 
higher load index than that of the original, first life, tyre unless approval has been granted to 
the manufacturer of the original, first life, tyre for that same carcass to be used at the revised 
service description. 

Information that an original, first life, carcass has been upgraded in this way shall be made 
freely  available  by  an  approval  authority  to  any  retreading  production  unit  and  shall  be 
communicated  to  other  parties  to  the  1958  Agreement  (see  Article  5  of  the  Agreement 
Concerning  the  Adoption  of  Uniform  Technical  Prescriptions  for  Wheeled  Vehicles, 
Equipment  and  Parts  which  can  be  Fitted  and/or  Used  on  Wheeled  Vehicles  and  the 
Conditions  for  Reciprocal  Recognition  of  Approvals  Granted  on  the  basis  of  these 
Prescriptions - document E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505/Rev.2). 

The standard form shown in annex 1 to Regulation No. 54 shall be used to communicate this 
information. 

6.4.10.  Upgrading of the service description as given in paragraph 6.4.9. shall only be permitted for 

the first retread of an original, first life tyre. 

EN 

23 

   EN 

 
 
 
 
 
Tyres  which  have  been  previously  retreaded  shall  not  have  either  the  speed  symbol  or  the 
load index raised above that shown on the used casing. 

6.5. 

Inspection: 

6.5.1.  After  curing,  whilst  a  degree  of  heat  is  retained  in  a  tyre,  each  retreaded  tyre  shall  be 
examined to ensure that it is free from any apparent defects. During or after retreading the 
tyre must be inflated to at least 1.5 bar for examination. Where there is any apparent defect 
in the profile of the tyre (e.g. blister, depression, etc.) the tyre shall be specifically examined 
to determine the cause of this defect. 

6.5.2. 

Before, during or after retreading the tyre shall be checked at least once for the integrity of 
its structure by means of a suitable inspection method. 

6.5.3. 

For  the  purposes  of  quality  control  a  number  of  retreaded  tyres  shall  be  subjected  to 
destructive or non destructive testing or examination. The quantity of tyres checked and the 
results shall be recorded. 

6.5.4.  After  retreading,  the  dimensions  of  the  retreaded  tyre,  when  measured  in  accordance  with 
annex  6  to  this  Regulation,  must  conform  either  to  dimensions  calculated  according  to  the 
procedures  in  paragraph  7  or  to  those  given  in  annex  5  to  this  Regulation.  Note  that  the 
maximum  outer  diameter  of  a  retreaded  tyre  may  be  up  to  1.5 per  cent  greater  than  the 
maximum outer diameter of a new, original tyre permitted by Regulation No. 54.  

6.6. 

Performance test: 

6.6.1. 

Tyres retreaded to comply with this Regulation shall be capable of  meeting the load/speed 
endurance test as specified in annex 7 to this Regulation. 

6.6.2.  A retreaded tyre which after undergoing the load/speed endurance test does not exhibit any 
tread separation, ply separation, cord separation, chunking or broken cords shall be deemed 
to have passed the test. 

6.6.3. 

The outer diameter of the tyre, measured six hours after the load/speed endurance test, must 
not differ by more than ± 3.5 per cent from the outer diameter as measured before the test. 

7. 

SPECIFICATIONS 

7.1. 

Tyres retreaded to comply with this Regulation shall conform to the following dimensions: 

7.1.1. 

Section width: 

7.1.1.1.  The section width shall be calculated by the following formula: 

S = S1 + K (A - A1) 

where: 

S : 

is the actual section width in millimetres as measured on the test rim; 

is the value of the 'Design Section Width', referred to the measuring rim, as quoted in 

S1: 
the International Tyre Standard specified by the retreader for the tyre size in question; 

A : 

is the width of the test rim in millimetres; 

EN 

24 

   EN 

 
is  the  width  in  millimetres  of  the  measuring  rim  as  quoted  in  the  International  Tyre 

A1: 
Standard specified by the retreader for the tyre size in question. 

K : 

is a factor and shall be taken to equal 0.4. 

7.1.2.  Outer diameter: 

7.1.2.1.  The  theoretical  outer  diameter  of  a  retreaded  tyre  shall  be  calculated  by  the  following 

formula: 

D = d + 2H 

where: 

D: 

is the theoretical outer diameter in millimetres; 

d: 

is the conventional number defined in paragraph 2.21.3. in millimetres; 

H: 

is nominal section height in millimetres and is equal to Sn multiplied by 0.01 Ra  

where: 

Sn: 

is the nominal section width in millimetres; 

Ra: 

is the nominal aspect ratio. 

All of the above symbols are as quoted in the tyre size designation as shown on the sidewall 
of  the  tyre  in  conformity  with  the  requirements  of  paragraph  3.2.2.  and  as  defined  in 
paragraph 2.21. 

7.1.2.2.  However, for tyres whose designation is given in the first column of the tables in annex 5 to 

ECE Regulation No. 54, the outer diameter shall be that given in those tables. 

7.1.3.  Method of measuring retreaded tyres: 

7.1.3.1.  The  dimensions  of  retreaded  tyres  shall  be  measured  in  accordance  with  the  procedures 

given in annex 6 to this Regulation. 

7.1.4. 

Section width specifications: 

7.1.4.1.  The  actual  overall  width  may  be  less  than  the  section  width  or  widths  determined  in 

paragraph 7.1. 

7.1.4.2.  The actual overall width may also exceed the value or values determined in paragraph 7.1. 

by:  

4 per cent in the case of radial ply tyres and 

8 per cent in the case of diagonal (bias-ply) and bias belted tyres. 

However,  for  tyres  with  a  section  width  exceeding  305  mm,  intended  for  fitting  in  dual 
(twin) formation, the nominal value or values shall not be exceeded by more than: 

2 per cent in the case of radial ply tyres and 

4 per cent for diagonal (bias-ply) and bias belted tyres. 

EN 

25 

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7.1.5.  Outer diameter specifications: 

7.1.5.1.  The  actual  outer  diameter  of  a  retreaded  tyre  must  not  be  outside  the  values  of  Dmin  and 

Dmax obtained by the following formulae: 

Dmin = d + (2H x a) 

Dmax = 1.015 x [d + (2H x b)] 

where: 

7.1.5.1.1. For sizes not given in the tables in annex 5 to this Regulation, "H" and "d" are as defined in 

paragraph 7.1.2.1. 

7.1.5.1.2. For sizes mentioned in paragraph 7.1.2.2. above: 

H = 0.5 (D - d) 

where  "D"  is  the  outer  diameter  and  "d"  the  Nominal  rim  diameter  quoted  in  the  above-
mentioned tables for the size in question. 

7.1.5.1.3. The coefficient "a" = 0.97 

7.1.5.1.4. The coefficient "b" is: 

Radial tyres 

Diagonal (bias-ply) and bias 
belted tyres 

for normal use tyres 

for special use tyres 

1.04 

1.06 

1.07 

1.09 

7.1.5.2.  For snow tyres the maximum outer diameter (Dmax) calculated in paragraph 7.1.5.1. may be 

exceeded by not more than 1 per cent. 

8. 

MODIFICATIONS TO THE APPROVAL 

8.1. 

Every modification concerning a retreading production unit amending any of the information 
given  by  the  retreading  production  unit  in  the  Application  for  Approval,  see  paragraph  4, 
shall  be  notified  to  the  approval  authority  which  approved  the  retreading  production  unit. 
That authority may then either: 

8.1.1. 

Consider that the modifications made are unlikely to have an appreciable adverse effect and 
that in any case the retreading production unit still meets the requirements; or 

8.1.2. 

Require a further investigation of the approval. 

8.2. 

Confirmation  of,  or  refusal  of,  approval,  specifying 
communicated by the procedure specified in 

the  modifications,  shall  be 

paragraph 5.7. to the Parties to the Agreement which apply this Regulation. 

9. 

CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION 

The conformity of production procedures shall comply with those set out in the Agreement, 
Appendix 2 (E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505/Rev.2), with the following requirements: 

EN 

26 

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9.1. 

9.2. 

The  retreading  production  unit  approved  according  to  this  Regulation  shall  conform  to  the 
requirements set out in paragraph 6.  

The  holder  of  the  approval  shall  ensure  that,  during  each  year  of  production,  and  spread 
throughout that year, at least the following number of tyres, representative of the range being 
produced, is checked and tested as prescribed in this Regulation: 

9.2.1. 

0.01  per  cent  of  the  total  annual  production  but  in  any  case  not  less  than  2  and  not 
necessarily more than 10. 

9.3. 

9.4. 

If the requirements of paragraph 9.2. are carried out by or under the control of the approval 
authority, the results may be used as part of, or instead of, those prescribed in paragraph 9.4. 

The authority which has approved the retreading production unit may at any time verify the 
conformity control methods applied in each production facility. For each production facility, 
the type approval authority shall take samples at random during each and every production 
year and at least the following number of tyres, representative of the range being produced, 
shall be checked and tested as prescribed in this Regulation: 

9.4.1. 

0.01  per  cent  of  the  total  annual  production  but  in  any  case  not  less  than  2  and  not 
necessarily more than 10. 

9.5. 

The tests and checks of paragraph 9.4. may replace those required in paragraph 9.2. 

10. 

PENALTIES FOR NON-CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION 

10.1. 

10.2. 

The approval granted in respect of a retreading production unit pursuant to this Regulation 
may  be  withdrawn  if  the  requirements  of  paragraph  9  are  not  complied  with  or  if  the 
retreading production unit or the retreaded tyres produced by that retreading production unit 
have failed to meet the requirements prescribed in paragraph 9. 

If  a  Party  to  the  Agreement  which  applies  this  Regulation  withdraws  an  approval  it  has 
previously  granted,  it  shall  forthwith  so  notify  the  other  Contracting  Parties  to  the  1958 
Agreement applying this Regulation, by means of a communication form conforming to the 
model shown in annex 1 to this Regulation. 

11. 

PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED 

The authority which granted the approval of the retreading production unit shall be informed 
if  operations  and  manufacture  of  retreaded  tyres  approved  within  the  scope  of  this 
Regulation  cease.  On  receipt  of  this  information  the  authority  shall  communicate  this 
information to the other Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation by means of 
a communication form conforming to the model shown in annex 1 to this Regulation. 

12. 

12.1. 

NAMES  AND  ADDRESSES  OF  TECHNICAL  SERVICES  RESPONSIBLE  FOR 
CONDUCTING  APPROVAL  TESTS,  OF  TEST  LABORATORIES,  AND  OF 
ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS 

The  Parties  to  the  1958  Agreement  which  apply  this  Regulation  shall  communicate  to  the 
United Nations Secretariat the names and addresses of the technical services responsible for 
conducting approval tests and, where applicable, of the approved test laboratories and of the 
administrative departments which grant approval and to which forms certifying approval or 
refusal  or  withdrawal  of  approval  or  production  definitely  discontinued,  issued  in  other 
countries, are to be sent. 

EN 

27 

   EN 

 
12.2. 

The Parties to the 1958 Agreement which apply this Regulation may use laboratories of tyre 
manufacturers  or  retreading  production  units  and  may  designate,  as  approved  test 
laboratories, those which are situated either in the territory of that Party or in the territory of 
another Party to the 1958 Agreement subject to a preliminary acceptance of this procedure 
by the competent administrative department of the latter. 

12.3.  Where  a  Party  to  the  1958  Agreement  applies  paragraph  12.2.,  it  may,  if  it  so  desires,  be 

represented at the tests. 

__________ 

EN 

28 

   EN 

 
 
Annex 1 

COMMUNICATION 

(maximum format: A4 (210 x 297 mm)) 

issued by: 

Name of administration: 

....................... 

....................... 

....................... 

concerning:  2/  APPROVAL GRANTED 

APPROVAL EXTENDED 

APPROVAL REFUSED 

APPROVAL WITHDRAWN 

PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED 

of a retreading production unit pursuant to Regulation No. 109 

Approval No.: ..........  Extension No.:............ 

1. 

2. 

Retreader's name or trade mark: ........................................................................................................... 

Name and address of retreading production unit:................................................................................. 

.............................................................................................................................................................. 

3. 

If applicable, name and address of retreader's representative: ............................................................. 

.............................................................................................................................................................. 

Summarized description as in paragraphs 4.1.3. and 4.1.4. of this Regulation:................................... 

Technical service and, where applicable, test laboratory approved for purposes of approval or 
verification of conformity: ................................................................................................................... 

.............................................................................................................................................................. 

Date of report issued by that service: ................................................................................................... 

Number of report issued by that service:.............................................................................................. 

4. 

5. 

6. 

7. 

EN 

29 

   EN 

 
 
 
 
  
 
8. 

9. 

Reason(s) of extension (if applicable):................................................................................................. 

Any remarks: ........................................................................................................................................ 

10. 

Place: .................................................................................................................................................... 

11. 

Date: ..................................................................................................................................................... 

12. 

Signature............................................................................................................................................... 

13. 

Annexed  to  this  communication  is  a  list  of  documents  in  the  approval  file  deposited  at  the 
Approval  Authority  which  has  considered  this  approval  and  which  can  be  obtained  upon 
request. 

___________ 

__________ 

1/ 

Distinguishing  number  of  the  country  which  has  granted/extended/refused/withdrawn  an 
approval (see approval provisions in the Regulation). 

2/ 

Delete that which does not apply. 

EN 

30 

   EN 

 
 
Annex 2 

ARRANGEMENT OF APPROVAL MARK 

a = 12 mm min  

The  above  approval  mark  affixed  to  a  retreaded  tyre  shows  that  the  retreading  production  unit 
concerned  has  been  approved  in  the  Netherlands  (E4)  under  approval  number  109R002439  meeting 
the requirements of this Regulation in its original form (00). 

The approval number must be placed close to the circle and either above or below the "E" or left or 
right of that letter. The digits of the approval number must be on the same side of the "E" and face in 
the  same  direction.  The  use  of  Roman  numerals  as  approval  numbers  should  be  avoided  so  as  to 
prevent any confusion with other symbols. 

________ 

EN 

31 

   EN 

 
 
 
 
 
Annex 3 

ARRANGEMENT OF RETREAD TYRE MARKINGS 

MINIMUM HEIGHTS OF MARKINGS 

(mm) 

Tyres of  

Tyres of rim diameter 

rim  diameter  ≤ code 
20 or ≤ 508 mm 

or of section width 

> code 20 or  

>  508  mm  or  of 
section width 

≤ 235 mm or ≤ 9" 

> 235 mm or > 9"  

b 

c 

d 

6 

9 

4 

6 

The above example defines a retreaded pneumatic tyre: 

Having a nominal section width of 295; 

Having a nominal aspect ratio of 80; 

Of radial-ply structure (R); 

Having a nominal rim diameter of 572 mm, for which the code is 22.5; 

Having load capacities of 3550 kg (single) and 3150 kg (twinned or dual), corresponding respectively 
to the load indices 152 and 148 shown in annex 4 to this Regulation; 

Having a nominal speed symbol K (reference speed 110 km/h); 

Able to be used at the Unique Point, speed symbol L (reference speed 120 km/h); with a load capacity 
of 3350 kg (single) and 3000 kg (twinned or dual), corresponding respectively to the load indices 150 
and 146 shown in annex 4 to this Regulation; 

Intended to be used without an inner tube ("TUBELESS") and of Snow type (M+S); 

Retreaded in the weeks 25, 26, 27 or 28 of the year 2003. 

EN 

32 

   EN 

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
 
 
 
Requiring to be inflated to 620 kPa for load/speed endurance tests, for which the PSI symbol is 90. 

The positioning and order of the markings constituting the tyre designation shall be as follows: 

(a) 

(b) 

The size designation, comprising the nominal section width, the nominal aspect ratio, the type-
of-structure  symbol  (where  applicable)  and  the  nominal  rim  diameter,  shall  be  grouped  as 
shown in the above example, that is: 295/80 R 22,5; 

The  service  description,  comprising  the  load  indices  and  the  speed  symbol  shall  be  placed 
together near the size designation. It may either precede the size designation or follow it or be 
placed above or below it; 

(c) 

The symbol "TUBELESS" and "M+S" may be at a distance from the size-designation symbol.  

(d) 

The word "RETREAD" may be at a distance from the size-designation symbol. 

(e) 

If  paragraph  3.2.5.  of  this  Regulation  is  applied,  the  additional  service  description  (Unique 
Point), comprising the load indices and speed symbol, must be shown inside a circle near the 
nominal service description appearing on the tyre sidewall. 

___________ 

EN 

33 

   EN 

 
 
Annex 4 

LIST OF LOAD INDICES AND CORRESPONDING LOAD CAPACITIES 

Load index (LI) and load capacity - kg

LI 

 kg 

LI 

kg 

LI 

kg 

LI 

kg 

LI 

kg 

LI 

kg 

LI 

kg 

 0 

45 

 40  

 140

 80 

 450  

 120 

 1 400

 160 

 4 500

 200 

14 000 

 240

45 000 

 1 

 46.2 

 41 

 145

 81 

 462 

 121 

 1 450

 161 

 4 625

 201 

14 500 

 241

46 250 

 2 

 47.5 

 42 

 150

 82 

 475 

 122 

 1 500

 162 

 4 750

 202 

15 000 

 242

47 500 

 3 

 48.7 

 43 

 155

 83 

 487 

 123 

 1 550

 163 

 4 875

 203 

15 500 

 243

48 750 

 4 

 50 

 44 

 160

 84 

 500 

 124 

 1 600

 164 

 5 000

 204 

16 000 

 244

50 000 

 5 

 51.5 

 45 

 165

 85 

 515 

 125 

 1 650

 165 

 5 150

 205 

16 500 

 245

51 500 

 6 

 53 

 46 

 170

 86 

 530 

 126 

 1 700

 166 

 5 300

 206 

17 000 

 246

53 000 

 7 

 54.5 

 47 

 175

 87 

 545 

 127 

 1 750

 167 

 5 450

 207 

17 500 

 247

54 500 

 8 

 9 

 56 

 48 

 180

 88 

 560 

 128 

 1 800

 168 

 5 600

 208 

18 000 

 248

56 000 

 58 

 49 

 185

 89 

 580 

 129 

 1 850

 169 

 5 800

 209 

18 500 

 249

58 000 

 10 

 60 

 50 

 190

 90 

 600 

 130 

 1 900

 170 

 6 000

 210 

19 000 

 250

60 000 

 11 

 61.5 

 51 

 195

 91 

 615 

 131 

 1 950

 171 

 6 150

 211 

19 500 

 251

61 500 

 12 

 63 

 52 

 200

 92 

 630 

 132 

 2 000

 172 

 6 300

 212 

20 000 

 252

63 000 

 13 

 65 

 53 

 206

 93 

 650 

 133 

 2 060

 173 

 6 500

 213 

20 600 

 253

65 000 

 14 

 67 

 54 

 212

 94 

 670 

 134 

 2 120

 174 

 6 700

 214 

21 200 

 254

67 000 

 15 

 69 

 55 

 218

 95 

 690 

 135 

 2 180

 175 

 6 900

 215 

21 800 

 255

69 000 

 16 

 71 

 56 

 224

 96 

 710 

 136 

 2 240

 176 

 7 100

 216 

22 400 

 256

71 000 

 17 

 73 

 57 

 230

 97 

 730 

 137 

 2 300

 177 

 7 300

 217 

23 000 

 257

73 000 

 18 

 75 

 58 

 236

 98 

 750 

 138 

 2 360

 178 

 7 500

 218 

23 600 

 258

75 000 

 19 

 77.5 

 59 

 243

 99 

 775 

 139 

 2 430

 179 

 7 750

 219 

24 300 

 259

77 500 

 20 

 80 

 60 

 250

100 

 800 

 140 

 2 500

 180 

 8 000

 220 

25 000 

 260

80 000 

EN 

34 

   EN 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 21 

 82.5 

 61 

 257

 101 

 825 

 141 

 2 575

 181 

 8 250

 221 

25 750 

 261

82 500 

 22 

 85 

 62 

 265

 102 

 850 

 142 

 2 650

 182 

 8 500

 222 

26 500 

 262

85 000 

 23 

 87.5 

 63 

 272

 103 

 875 

 143 

 2 725

 183 

 8 750

 223 

27 250 

 263

87 500 

 24 

 90 

 64 

 280

 104 

 900 

 144 

 2 800

 184 

 9 000

 224 

28 000 

 264

90 000 

 25 

 92.5 

 65 

 290

 105 

 925 

 145 

 2 900

 185 

 9 250

 225 

29 000 

 265

92 500 

 26 

 95 

 66 

 300

 106 

 950 

 146 

 3 000

 186 

 9 500

 226 

30 000 

 266

95 000 

 27 

 97.5 

 67 

 307

 107 

 975 

 147 

 3 075

 187 

 9 750

 227 

30 750 

 267

97 500 

 28 

 100 

 68 

 315

 108 

 1 000 

 148 

 3 150

 188 

10 000

 228 

31 500 

 268

100 000

 29 

 103 

 69 

 325

 109 

 1 030 

 149 

 3 250

 189 

10 300

 229 

32 500 

 269

103 000

 30 

 106 

 70 

 335

 110 

 1 060 

 150 

 3 350

 190 

10 600

 230 

33 500 

 270

106 000

 31 

 109 

 71 

 345

 111 

 1 090 

 151 

 3 450

 191 

10 900

 231 

34 500 

 271

109 000

 32 

 112 

 72 

 355

 112 

 1 120 

 152 

 3 550

 192 

11 200

 232 

35 500 

 272

112 000

 33 

 115 

 73 

 365

 113 

 1 150 

 153 

 3 650

 193 

11 500

 233 

36 500 

 273

115 000

 34 

 118 

 74 

 375

 114 

 1 180 

 154 

 3 750

 194 

11 800

 234 

37 500 

 274

118 000

 35 

 121 

 75 

 387

 115 

 1 215 

 155 

 3 875

 195 

12 150

 235 

38 750 

 275

121 500

 36 

 125 

 76 

 400

 116 

 1 250 

 156 

 4 000

 196 

12 500

 236 

40 000 

 276

125 000

 37 

 128 

 77 

 412

 117 

 1 285 

 157 

 4 125

 197 

12 850

 237 

41 250 

 277

128 500

 38 

 132 

 78 

 425

 118 

 1 320 

 158 

 4 250

 198 

13 200

 238 

42 500 

 278

132 000

 39 

 136 

 79 

 437

 119  

 1 360 

 159 

 4 375

 199 

13 600

 239 

43 750  

 279

136 000

_________ 

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35 

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Annex 5 

TYRE SIZE DESIGNATION AND DIMENSIONS 

(IN ACCORDANCE WITH ECE REGULATION No. 54) 

FOR THIS INFORMATION REFER TO ANNEX 5 OF ECE REGULATION No. 54 

Note that with reference to paragraph 6.5.4. of this Regulation, the outer diameter of a retreaded tyre 
may in all cases be greater than that shown in the tables in annex 5 to Regulation No. 54 but by no 
more than 1.5 per cent. 

________ 

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36 

   EN 

 
 
 
Annex 6 

METHOD OF MEASURING PNEUMATIC TYRES 

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

5. 

The  tyre  shall  be  mounted  on  the  test  rim  specified  by  the  retreader  and  inflated  to  the 
nominal  inflation  pressure  quoted  in  the  nominated  International  Tyre  Standard  (see 
paragraph 4.1.4.7. of this Regulation) in relation to the maximum load carrying capacity for 
that size and load index. 

The tyre, fitted to the appropriate rim, shall be conditioned to the ambient temperature of the 
laboratory  for  at  least  24  hr  save  as  otherwise  required  by  paragraph  6.6.3.  of  this 
Regulation. 

The pressure shall be re-adjusted to the value in paragraph 1 of this annex. 

The  overall  width  shall  be  measured  at  six  equally  spaced  points  around  the  tyre,  taking 
account of the thickness of any protective ribs or bands. The highest reading obtained shall 
be taken as the overall width. 

The outer diameter shall be calculated from a measurement of the maximum circumference 
of the inflated tyre. 

_________ 

EN 

37 

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Annex 7 

PROCEDURE FOR LOAD/SPEED ENDURANCE TESTS 

(IN PRINCIPLE IN ACCORDANCE WITH REGULATION No. 54) 

1. 

Preparing the tyre 

1.1. 

Mount a retreaded tyre on the test rim specified by the retreader. 

1.2. 

1.3. 

Use a new inner tube or combination of inner tube, valve and flap (as required) when testing 
tyres with inner tubes. 

Inflate the tyre to the pressure corresponding to the pressure index as specified in paragraph 
3.2.10. of this Regulation. 

1.4. 

Condition the tyre and wheel assembly at test-room temperature for not less than 3 hr. 

1.5. 

Readjust the tyre pressure to that specified in paragraph 1.3. of this annex. 

2. 

Test Procedure 

2.1. 

2.2. 

Mount the tyre and wheel assembly on the test axle and press it against the outer face of a 
smooth  surfaced  power-driven  test  drum  1.70  m  ±  1 per  cent  diameter  having  a  surface  at 
least as wide as the tyre tread. In certain cases a 2.00 m ± 1 per cent diameter drum may be 
used. 

Apply  to  the  test  axle  a  series  of  test  loads  equal  to  a  percentage  of  the  load  indicated  in 
annex  4  to  this  Regulation,  corresponding  to  the  load  index  indicated  on  the  tyre,  and  in 
accordance  with  the  test  programme  below.  Where  the  tyre  has  load  capacity  indices  for 
operation in both single and twin or dual formation the load corresponding to the load index 
for single operation shall be used for the test. 

2.2.1. 

In the case of a tyre with a load index ≤ 121 and a speed symbol ≥ Q (160 km/h), the test 
procedure shall be as specified in paragraph 3 of this annex. 

2.2.2. 

For all other tyres the test procedure is as shown in appendix 1 to this annex. 

2.3. 

Endurance Test Programme - See also appendix 1 to this annex. 

2.3.1. 

The  tyre  pressure  shall  not  be  corrected  throughout  the  test  and  the  test  load  shall  be  kept 
constant throughout each of the three test stages.  

2.3.2.  During  the  test  the  temperature  of  the  test  room  shall  be  maintained  at  between  20°C  and 

30°C unless the tyre manufacturer or retreader agrees to the use of a higher temperature. 

2.4. 

The endurance test programme shall be carried out without interruption. 

3. 

3.1. 

Load/Speed  test  procedure  for  tyres  with  a  load  index  ≤ 121  and  a  speed  symbol  ≥ Q 
(160 km/h): 

The load on the wheel and tyre shall be the following percentage of that corresponding to the 
load index of the tyre: 

3.1.1. 

90 per cent when tested on a drum of 1.70 m ± 1 per cent diameter; 

EN 

38 

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3.1.2. 

92 per cent when tested on a drum of 2.00 m ± 1 per cent diameter. 

3.2. 

The initial phase test speed shall be 20 km/h less than that indicated by the speed symbol for 
the tyre. 

3.2.1. 

Time taken to reach initial test speed shall be 10 min. 

3.2.2. 

The duration of the first phase shall be 10 min. 

3.3. 

The second phase test speed shall be 10 km/h less than that indicated by the speed symbol 
for the tyre. 

3.3.1. 

The duration of the second phase shall be 10 min. 

3.4. 

The  final  phase  test  speed  shall  be  the  speed  corresponding  to  that  indicated  by  the  speed 
symbol for the tyre. 

3.4.1. 

The duration of the final phase shall be 30 min. 

3.5. 

The duration of the entire test shall be 1 hr. 

4. 

Equivalent test method: 

If  a  test  method  other  than  that  given  in  paragraphs  2  or  3  of  this  annex  is  used,  its 
equivalence must be demonstrated. 

EN 

39 

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Annex 7 - Appendix 1 

ENDURANCE-TEST PROGRAMME 

Load 
index 

Speed 
symbol 

Test-drum speed [min-1] 

Load placed on the wheel as a percentage 
of the load corresponding to the load 
index 

Radial-ply  

Diagonal (bias 
ply) and bias 
belted  

7 h. 

16 h. 

24 h. 

122 or 
more 

121 or 
less 

F 
G 
J 
K 
L 
M 

F 
G 
J 
K 
L 

M 
N 
P 

100 
125 
150 
175 
200 
225 

100 
125 
150 
175 
200 

250 
275 
300 

100 
100 
125 
150 
- 
- 

100 
125 
150 
175 
175 

200 
- 
- 

66% 

84% 

101% 

70% 
4 h. 
75% 
75% 
75% 

88% 
6 h. 
97% 
97% 
97% 

106% 

114% 
114% 
114% 

Notes: 

(1) 

"Special-use" tyres (see paragraph 2.3.2. of this Regulation) shall be tested at a speed equal to 
85 per cent of the speed prescribed for equivalent normal tyres. 

_________ 

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Annex 7 - Appendix 2 

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE PRESSURE INDEX  

AND UNITS OF PRESSURE 

Pressure Index 
("PSI") 
20 
25 
30 
35 
40 
45 
50 
55 
60 
65 
70 
75 
80 
85 
90 
95 
100 
105 
110 
115 
120 
125 
130 
135 
140 
145 
150 
... 

bar 
1.4 
1.7 
2.1 
2.4 
2.8 
3.1 
3.4 
3.8 
4.1 
4.5 
4.8 
5.2 
5.5 
5.9 
6.2 
6.6 
6.9 
7.2 
7.6 
7.9 
8.3 
8.6 
9.0 
9.3 
9.7 
10.0 
10.3 
... 

________ 

kPa 
140 
170 
210 
240 
280 
310 
340 
380 
410 
450 
480 
520 
550 
590 
620 
660 
690 
720 
760 
790 
830 
860 
900 
930 
970 
1000 
1030 
... 

EN 

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   EN 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
VARIATION OF LOAD CAPACITY WITH SPEED: COMMERCIAL VEHICLE TYRES 

Annex 8 

RADIAL AND DIAGONAL PLY 

(IN ACCORDANCE WITH UN ECE REGULATION No. 54) 

Variation of Load Capacity (%) 

Speed 

(km/h) 

All load indices 

Load indices 

 ≥ 122 1/ 

Load indices 

 ≤ 121 1/ 

Speed Symbol 

Speed Symbol 

Speed Symbol 

F 

G 

J 

K 

L 

M 

L 

M 

N 

P 2/ 

+150 

+150 

+150 

+150 

+150 

+150 

+110 

+110 

+110 

+110 

+110 

+110 

+110 

+110 

+110 

+110 

+ 90 

+ 90 

+ 90 

+ 90 

+ 80 

+ 80 

+ 80 

+ 80 

+ 80 

+ 80 

+ 75 

+ 75 

+ 75 

+ 75 

+ 65 

+ 65 

+ 65 

+ 65 

+ 65 

+ 65 

+ 60 

+ 60 

+ 60 

+ 60 

+ 50 

+ 50 

+ 50 

+ 50 

+ 50 

+ 50 

+ 50 

+ 50 

+ 50 

+ 50 

+ 35 

+ 35 

+ 35 

+ 35 

+ 35 

+ 35 

+ 42 

+ 42 

+ 42 

+ 42 

+ 25 

+ 25 

+ 25 

+ 25 

+ 25  

+ 25 

+ 35 

+ 35 

+ 35 

+ 35 

+ 19 

+ 19 

+ 19 

+ 19 

+ 19 

+ 19 

+ 29 

+ 29 

+ 29 

+ 29 

+ 15 

+ 15 

+ 15 

+ 15 

+ 15 

+ 15  

+ 25 

+ 25  

+ 25 

+ 25 

+ 13 

+ 13 

+ 13 

+ 13 

+ 13 

+ 13 

+ 22 

+ 22 

+ 22 

+ 22 

+ 12 

+ 12 

+ 12 

+ 12 

+ 12 

+ 12 

+ 20 

+ 20 

+ 20 

+ 20 

+ 11 

+ 11 

+ 11 

+ 11 

+ 11 

+ 11 

+17.5 

+17.5 

+17.5 

+17.5 

+ 10 

+ 10 

+ 10 

+ 10 

+ 10 

+ 10 

+15.0 

+15.0 

+15.0 

+15.0 

+7.5 

+ 8.5 

+8.5 

+8.5 

+8.5 

+ 8.5 

+13.5 

+13.5 

+13.5 

+13.5 

+5.0 

+7.0 

+7.0 

+7.0 

+7.0 

+7.0 

+12.5 

+12.5 

+12.5 

+12.5 

+2.5 

+5.5 

+5.5 

+5.5 

+5.5 

+5.5 

+11.0 

+11.0 

+11.0 

+11.0 

0 

+4.0 

+4.0 

+4.0 

+4.0 

+4.0 

+10.0 

+10.0 

+10.0 

+10.0 

0 

5 

10 

15 

20 

25 

30 

35 

40 

45 

50 

55 

60 

65 

70 

75 

80 

EN 

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   EN 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
85 

90 

95 

-3 

-6 

+2.0 

+3.0 

+3.0 

+3.0 

+3.0 

+8.5 

+8.5 

+8.5 

+8.5 

0 

+2.0 

+2.0 

+2.0 

+2.0 

+7.5 

+7.5 

+7.5 

+7.5 

-10 

-2.5 

+1.0 

+1.0 

+1.0 

+1.0 

+6.5 

+6.5 

+6.5 

+6.5 

-5 

-8 

-13 

0 

-2 

-4 

-7 

-12 

0 

0 

0 

-3 

-7 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

100 

-15 

105 

110 

115 

120 

125 

130 

135 

140 

145 

150 

155 

160 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

+5.0 

+5.0 

+5.0 

+5.0 

+3.75 

+3.75 

+3.75 

+3.75 

+2.5 

+2.5 

+2.5 

+2.5 

+1.25 

+1.25 

+1.25 

+1.25 

0 

-2.5 

-5.0 

0 

0 

0 

-7.5 

-2.5 

-10 

-5 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

-7.5 

-2.5 

-10.0 

-5.0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

-7.5 

-2.5 

-10.0 

-5.0 

________________ 

1/ The load indices refer to operation in single formation. 

2/ Load variations are not allowed for speeds above 160 km/h. For speed symbols "Q" and above the 
speed corresponding to the speed symbol specifies the maximum permissible speed for the tyre. 

EN 

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Annex 9 

EXPLANATORY FIGURE 

See paragraph 2 of this Regulation 

EN 

44 

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ANNEX 2 

Regulation n° 108 
(Text consolidated by the European Commission services) 

E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS 505/Rev.2/Add.107 

E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS 505/Rev.2/Add.107/Corr.1 

UNIFORM PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE APPROVAL FOR THE PRODUCTION 

OF RETREADED PNEUMATIC TYRES FOR MOTOR VEHICLES AND THEIR TRAILERS 

EN 

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Regulation No. 108 

UNIFORM PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE APPROVAL FOR THE PRODUCTION 

OF RETREADED PNEUMATIC TYRES FOR MOTOR VEHICLES AND THEIR TRAILERS 

CONTENTS 

Page 

REGULATION 

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

5. 

6. 

7. 

8. 

9. 

Scope ..................................................................................................................................................5 

Definitions..........................................................................................................................................5 

Markings ..........................................................................................................................................12 

Application for approval ..................................................................................................................14 

Approval...........................................................................................................................................15 

Requirements....................................................................................................................................16 

Specifications ...................................................................................................................................22 

Modifications to the approval...........................................................................................................24 

Conformity of production.................................................................................................................25 

10. 

Penalties for non-conformity 

of production ....................................................................................................................................26 

11. 

Production definitely discontinued...................................................................................................26 

12. 

Names and addresses of technical services 

responsible for conducting approval tests, 

of test laboratories, and of administrative 

departments ......................................................................................................................................26 

ANNEXES 

Annex 1 

-  Communication  concerning  the  approval  or  extension  or  refusal  or  withdrawal  of 
approval  or  production  definitely  discontinued  of  a  retreading  production  unit 
pursuant to Regulation No. 108 

Annex 2 

-  Arrangement of approval marks 

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Annex 3 

-  Arrangement of retread tyre markings 

Annex 4 

-  List of load indices and corresponding load capacities 

Annex 5 

-  Tyre size designation and dimensions 

Annex 6 

-  Method of measuring pneumatic tyres 

Annex 7 

-  Procedure for load/speed endurance tests 

Annex 8 

-  Explanatory figure 

__________ 

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1. 

SCOPE 

This Regulation applies to the production of retreaded tyres intended to be fitted to private 
(passenger) cars and their trailers used on the road. It does not however apply to: 

1.1. 

Retreaded tyres for commercial vehicles and their trailers. 

1.2. 

Retreaded tyres with a speed capability below 120 km/h or above 300 km/h.  

1.3. 

Tyres for cycles and motorcycles. 

1.4. 

Tyres originally produced without speed symbols and load indices. 

1.5. 

Tyres originally produced without type approval and without either an "E" or "e" mark. 

1.6. 

Tyres designed for the equipment of cars produced prior to 1939. 

1.7. 

Tyres designed exclusively for competition or off road use and marked accordingly. 

1.8. 

Tyres designated as "T type" temporary use spares. 

2. 

DEFINITIONS - See also figure in annex 8 

For the purpose of this Regulation: 

2.1. 

2.2. 

2.2.1. 

2.2.2. 

2.2.3. 

"Range of retreaded pneumatic tyres" - means a range of retreaded pneumatic tyres as quoted 
in paragraph 4.1.4. 

"Structure" of a pneumatic-tyre means the technical characteristics of the tyre's carcass. The 
following structures are distinguished in particular: 

"Diagonal" or "Bias ply" describes a pneumatic-tyre structure in which the ply cords extend 
to the beads and are laid at alternate angles substantially less than 90° to the centreline of the 
tread. 

"Bias  belted"  describes  a  pneumatic-tyre  structure  of  diagonal  (bias-ply)  type  in  which  the 
carcass  is  stabilized  by  a  belt,  comprising  two  or  more  layers  of  substantially  inextensible 
cord material laid at alternate angles close to those of the carcass. 

"Radial" describes a pneumatic-tyre structure in which the ply cords extend to the beads and 
are laid substantially at 90° to the centreline of the tread, the carcass being stabilized by an 
essentially inextensible circumferential belt. 

2.3. 

"Category of use" 

2.3.1.  Normal tyre is a tyre intended for normal road use only. 

2.3.2. 

Snow tyre is a tyre whose tread pattern, or tread pattern and structure, is primarily designed 
to ensure, in mud and fresh or melting snow, a performance better than that of a normal tyre. 
The tread pattern of a snow tyre generally consists of groove (rib) and solid block elements 
more widely spaced than on a normal tyre. 

2.3.3. 

Temporary use spare tyre is a tyre different from that intended to be fitted to any vehicle for 
normal  driving  conditions  but  intended  only  for  temporary  use  under  restricted  driving 
conditions. 

EN 

48 

   EN 

 
2.3.4. 

"T" type temporary use spare tyre is a type of temporary use spare tyre designed for use at 
inflation pressures higher than those established for standard and reinforced tyres. 

2.4. 

"Bead" means the part of a pneumatic-tyre which is of such shape and structure as to fit the 
rim and hold the tyre on it. 

2.5. 

"Cord" means the strands forming the fabric of the plies in the pneumatic-tyre. 

2.6. 

"Ply" means a layer of "rubber" coated parallel cords. 

2.7. 

2.8. 

2.9. 

2.10. 

2.11. 

2.12. 

2.13. 

"Belt" applies to a radial ply or bias belted tyre and means a layer or layers of material or 
materials  underneath  the  tread,  laid  substantially  in  the  direction  of  the  centre  line  of  the 
tread to restrict the carcass in a circumferential direction. 

"Breaker" applies to a diagonal ply tyre and means an intermediate ply between the carcass 
and tread. 

"Chafer" means material in the bead area to protect the carcass against chafing or abrasion 
by the wheel rim.  

"Carcass" means that structural part of a pneumatic-tyre other than the tread and outermost 
"rubber" of the sidewalls which, when inflated, supports the load. 

"Tread" means that part of a pneumatic-tyre which is designed to come into contact with the 
ground, protects the carcass against mechanical damage and contributes to ground adhesion. 

"Sidewall" means the part of a pneumatic tyre between the tread and the area designed to be 
covered by the rim flange. 

"Lower area of tyre" means the area included between the line of maximum section width of 
the tyre and the area designed to be covered by the edge of the rim. 

2.14. 

"Tread groove" means the space between the adjacent ribs or blocks in the tread pattern. 

2.15. 

2.16. 

2.17. 

2.18. 

2.19. 

"Principal grooves" means the wide grooves situated in the central zone of the tread, which 
cover approximately three-quarters of the breadth of the tread. 

"Section width" means the linear distance between the outside of the sidewalls of an inflated 
pneumatic-tyre, when fitted to the specified measuring rim, but excluding elevations due to 
labelling (marking), decoration or protective bands or ribs. 

"Overall width" means the linear distance between the outside of the sidewalls of an inflated 
pneumatic-tyre, when fitted to the specified measuring rim, and including  

"Section height" means a distance equal to half the difference between the outer diameter of 
the tyre and the nominal rim diameter. 

"Nominal  aspect  ratio"  means  one  hundred  times  the  number  obtained  by  dividing  the 
number expressing the nominal section height by the number expressing the nominal section 
width, both dimensions being in the same units. 

2.20. 

"Outer diameter" means the overall diameter of an inflated, newly retreaded tyre. 

2.21. 

"Tyre size designation" means a designation showing: 

EN 

49 

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2.21.1.  The nominal section width. This must be expressed in millimetres, except in cases of tyres 
for which the size designation is shown in the first column of the tables in annex 5 to this 
Regulation. 

2.21.2.  The nominal aspect ratio except in cases of tyres for which the size designation is shown in 

the first column of the tables in annex 5 to this Regulation. 

2.21.3.  A conventional number "d" (the "d" symbol) denoting the nominal rim diameter of the rim 
and  corresponding  to  its  diameter  expressed  either  by  codes  (numbers  below  100)  or  in 
millimetres  (numbers  above  100).  Numbers  corresponding  to  both  types  of  measurements 
may be used in the designation. 

2.21.3.1.  The values of the "d" symbols expressed in millimetres are shown below: 

Nominal Rim Diameter Code - "d" 

Value of the "d" symbol expressed in 
mm 

8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 

15 
16 
17 
18 
19 

20 
21 

203 
229 
254 
279 
305 
330 
356 

381 
406 
432 
457 
483 

508 
533 

2.22. 

2.23. 

2.24. 

"Nominal rim diameter (d)" means the diameter of the rim on which a tyre is designed to be 
mounted. 

"Rim" means the support, either for a tyre-and-tube assembly or for a tubeless tyre, on which 
the tyre beads are seated. 

"Measuring rim" means the rim specified as a 'measuring rim width' or 'design rim width' for 
a  particular  tyre  size  designation  in  any  edition  of  one  or  more  of  the  International  Tyre 
Standards.  

2.25. 

"Test rim" means any rim specified as approved or recommended or permitted in one of the 
International Tyre Standards for a tyre of that size designation and type. 

2.26. 

"International Tyre Standard" means any one of the following standard documents: 

(a) 

The European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation (ETRTO) 1/: 'Standards Manual' 

(b)  The  European  Tyre  and  Rim  Technical  Organisation  (ETRTO)  1/:  'Engineering 

Design Information - obsolete data' 

(c) 

The Tire and Rim Association Inc. (TRA) 2/: 'Year Book' 

EN 

50 

   EN 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(d)  The Japan Automobile Tire Manufacturers Association (JATMA) 3/: 'Year Book' 

(e) 

The Tyre and Rim Association of Australia (TRAA) 4/: 'Standards Manual' 

(f) 

The Associaçiao Latino Americana de Pneus e Aros (ALAPA) 5/: 'Manual de Normal 
Technicas' 

(g)  The Scandinavian Tyre and Rim Organisation (STRO) 6/: 'Data Book' 

2.27. 

"Chunking" means the breaking away of pieces of rubber from the tread. 

2.28. 

"Cord separation" means the parting of the cords from their rubber coating. 

2.29. 

"Ply separation" means the parting of adjacent plies. 

2.30. 

"Tread separation" means the pulling away of the tread from the carcass. 

2.31. 

2.32. 

2.33. 

"Tread  wear  indicators"  means  the  projections  within  the  tread  grooves  designed  to  give  a 
visual indication of the degree of wear of the tread. 

"Service description" means the specific combination of the load index and speed symbol of 
the tyre. 

"Load  index"  means  a  numerical  code  which  indicates  the  maximum  load  the  tyre  can 
support.  

The list of load indices and the corresponding loads are shown in annex 4 to this Regulation. 

2.34. 

"Speed symbol" means: 

2.34.1.  An alphabetical symbol indicating the speed at which the tyre can carry the load given by the 

associated load index. 

_______________ 

The tyre standards can be obtained from the following addresses: 
1/ 
2/ 
3/ 

ETRTO, 32 Av. Brugmann - Bte 2, B-1060 Brussels, Belgium 
TRA, 175 Montrose West Avenue, Suite 150, Copley, Ohio, 44321 USA 
JATMA,  9th  Floor,  Toranomon  Building  No.  1-12,  1-Chome  Toranomon  Minato-ku, 
Tokyo 105, Japan 
TRAA, Suite 1, Hawthorn House, 795 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn, Victoria, 3122 Australia 
ALAPA, Avenida Paulista 2444-12° Andar, conj. 124, 01310 Sao Paulo, SP Brazil 
STRO, Älggatan 48 A, Nb, S-216 15 Malmö, Sweden 

4/ 
5/ 
6/ 

EN 

51 

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2.34.2.  The speed symbols and corresponding speeds are as shown in the table below: 

Speed symbol 

Corresponding speed (km/h) 

L 

M 

N 

P 

Q 

R 

S 

T 

U 

H 

V 

W 

Y 

120 

130 

140 

150 

160 

170 

180 

190 

200 

210 

240 

270 

300 

2.35. 

"Maximum load rating" means the maximum mass which the tyre is rated to support. 

2.35.1.  For  speeds  not  exceeding  210  km/h,  the  maximum  load  rating  shall  not  exceed  the  value 

corresponding to the load index for the tyre. 

EN 

52 

   EN 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2.35.2.  For  speeds  greater  than  210  km/h  but  not  exceeding  300  km/h,  the  maximum  load  rating 
shall not exceed the percentage of the value associated with the load capacity index of the 
tyre, given in the table below, with reference to the speed capability of the vehicle to which 
the tyre is to be fitted: 

Tyre speed symbol 
V 

Maximum speed – km/h 
210 
215 
220 
225 
230 
235 
240 

Maximum load rating - % 
100,0 
98,5 
97,0 
95,5 
94,0 
92,5 
91,0 

W 

Y 

240 
250 
260 
270 

270 
280 
290 
300 

100 
95 
90 
85 

100 
95 
90 
85 

For  intermediate  maximum  speeds  a  linear  interpolation  of  the  maximum  load  rating  is 
permissible. 

2.36. 

2.37. 

"Retreading production unit" means a site or group of localized sites where finished retread 
tyres are produced. 

"Retreading"  means  the  generic  term  for  reconditioning  a  used  tyre  by  replacing  the  worn 
tread with new material. It may also include renovation of the outermost sidewall surface. It 
covers the following process methods: 

2.37.1. 

"Top capping" - replacement of the tread. 

2.37.2. 

"Re-capping" - replacement of the tread and with the new material extending over part of the 
sidewall. 

2.37.3. 

"Bead to bead" - replacement of the tread and renovation of the sidewall including all or part 
of the lower area of the tyre. 

2.38. 

"Casing" is the worn tyre comprising carcass and remaining tread and sidewall material. 

2.39. 

"Buffing" is the process of removing old material from the casing to prepare the surface for 
the new material. 

2.40. 

"Repair" is the remedial work carried out to damaged casings within recognized limits. 

2.41. 

"Tread material" is material in a condition suitable for replacing the worn tread. It can be in 
several forms for example: 

EN 

53 

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2.41.1. 

"Camel-back"  -  pre-cut  lengths  of  material  which  have  been  extruded  to  give  the  required 
cross section profile and subsequently fitted cold to the prepared casing. The new  material 
must be cured. 

2.41.2. 

"Strip-wound" - a ribbon of tread material which is directly extruded and wound on to the 
prepared casing and built up to the required cross sectional contour. The new material must 
be cured.  

2.41.3. 

"Direct extrusion" - tread material extruded to give the required cross sectional profile and 
directly extruded on to the prepared casing. The new material must be cured. 

2.41.4. 

"Pre-cured"  -  a  previously  formed  and  cured  tread  applied  directly  to  the  prepared  casing. 
The new material must be bonded to the casing. 

2.42. 

2.43. 

"Sidewall veneer" is material used to cover the sidewalls of the casing thereby allowing the 
required markings to be formed. 

"Cushion  gum"  is  material  used  as  a  bonding  layer  between  new  tread  and  casing  and  for 
repairing minor damage. 

2.44. 

"Cement" is an adhesive solution to hold new materials in place prior to the curing process. 

2.45. 

2.46. 

2.47. 

"Cure"  is  the  term  used  to  describe  the  change  in  physical  properties  of  the  new  material 
which  is  brought  about  usually  by  the  application  of  heat  and  pressure  for  a  set  period  of 
time under controlled conditions. 

"Radial  run  out"  means  the  variation  in  radius  of  the  tyre  measured  around  the  outer 
circumference of the tread surface. 

"Imbalance" means a measurement of the variation in distribution of mass around the centre 
axis of the tyre. It can be measured as either "Static" or "Dynamic" imbalance. 

3. 

MARKINGS 

3.1. 

3.2. 

An  example  of  the  arrangement  of  retreaded  tyre  markings  is  shown  in  annex 3  to  this 
Regulation. 

Retreaded tyres shall display on both sidewalls in the case of symmetrical tyres and at least 
on the outer sidewall in the case of asymmetrical tyres: 

3.2.1. 

The brand name or trade mark. 

3.2.2. 

The tyre-size designation as defined in paragraph 2.21. 

3.2.3.  An indication of the structure as follows: 

3.2.3.1.  On  diagonal  (bias-ply)  tyres;  no  indication,  or  the  letter  "D"  placed  in  front  of  the  rim 

diameter marking. 

3.2.3.2.  On radial-ply tyres; the letter "R" placed in front of the rim-diameter marking and optionally 

the word "RADIAL". 

3.2.3.3.  On  bias  belted  tyres;  the  letter  "B"  placed  in  front  of  the  rim  diameter  marking  and  in 

addition the words "BIAS-BELTED". 

3.2.4. 

The service description comprising: 

EN 

54 

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3.2.4.1.  An indication of the tyre's nominal load capacity in the form of the load index prescribed in 

paragraph 2.33. 

3.2.4.2.  An indication of the tyre's nominal speed capability in the form of the symbol prescribed in 

paragraph 2.34.  

3.2.5. 

The word "TUBELESS" if the tyre is designed for use without an inner tube. 

3.2.6. 

The inscription M+S or MS or M.S. or M & S in the case of a snow tyre. 

3.2.7. 

The date of retreading as follows: 

3.2.7.1.  Up to 31 December 1999; either as prescribed in paragraph 3.2.7.2. or in the form of a group 
of three digits, the first two showing the week number and the third, the year of the decade of 
manufacture. The date code can cover a period of production from the week indicated by the 
week  number  up  to  and  including  the  week  number  plus  three.  For  example,  the  marking 
"253" could indicate a tyre which was retreaded in weeks 25, 26, 27 or 28 of the year 1993. 

The date code may be marked on one sidewall only. 

3.2.7.2.  As from 1 January 2000; in the form of a group of four digits, the first two showing the week 
number and the second two showing the year in which the tyre was retreaded. The date code 
can  cover  a  period  of  production  from  the  week  indicated  by  the  week  number  up  to  and 
including the week number plus three. For example, the marking "2503" could indicate a tyre 
which was retreaded in weeks 25, 26, 27 or 28 of the year 2003. 

The date code may be marked on one sidewall only. 

3.2.8. 

The term "RETREAD" or "REMOULD" (after 1 January 1999 only the word "RETREAD" 
shall be used). At the request of the retreader, the same term in other languages may also be 
added. 

3.3. 

3.4. 

3.5. 

3.6. 

Prior  to  approval  tyres  shall  exhibit  a  free  space  sufficiently  large  to  accommodate  an 
approval mark as referred to in paragraph 5.8. and as shown in annex 2 to this Regulation. 

Following approval, the markings referred to in paragraph 5.8. and as shown in annex 2 to 
this Regulation shall be affixed in the free space referred to in paragraph 3.3. This marking 
may be affixed to one sidewall only. 

The markings referred to in paragraph 3.2. and the approval mark prescribed in paragraphs 
3.4. and 5.8. shall be clearly legible and shall be moulded on to or into the tyre or shall be 
permanently marked on to the tyre. 

As far as any of the original manufacturer’s specifications are still legible after the tyres have 
been retreaded, they shall be regarded as specifications of the retreader for the retreaded tyre. 
If  these  original  specifications  do  not  apply  after  retreading  they  shall  be  completely 
removed. 

3.7. 

The original "E" or "e" approval mark and number shall be removed. 

4. 

APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL 

The following procedures are applicable to the approval of a tyre retreading production unit. 

EN 

55 

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4.1. 

The application for approval of a retreading production unit shall be submitted by the holder 
of  the  trade  name  or  trade  mark  to  be  applied  to  the  tyre  or  by  his  duly  accredited 
representative. It shall specify: 

4.1.1.  An outline of the structure of the company producing the retreaded tyres. 

4.1.2.  A brief description of the quality management system, which ensures the effective control of 

the tyre retreading procedures to meet the requirements of this Regulation. 

4.1.3. 

The trade names or marks to be applied to the retreaded tyres produced. 

4.1.4. 

The following information in relation to the range of tyres to be retreaded: 

4.1.4.1. 

the range of tyre sizes; 

4.1.4.2. 

the structure of tyres (diagonal or bias ply, bias-belted or radial); 

4.1.4.3. 

the category of use of tyres (normal or snow tyres etc.); 

4.1.4.4. 

the system of retreading and the method of application of the new materials to be used, as 
defined in paragraphs 2.37. and 2.41.; 

4.1.4.5. 

the maximum speed symbol of the tyres to be retreaded; 

4.1.4.6. 

the maximum load index of the tyres to be retreaded. 

4.1.4.7. 

the nominated International Tyre Standard to which the range of tyres conform. 

5. 

APPROVAL 

5.1. 

5.2. 

5.3. 

5.4. 

To  retread  tyres  requires  the  approval  of  the  retreading  production  unit  by  the  responsible 
authorities in accordance with the requirements of this Regulation. The responsible authority 
takes the necessary measures as described in this Regulation in order to ensure that the tyres 
retreaded  in  the  respective  production  unit  will  meet  with  the  requirements  stated  in  this 
Regulation.  The  retread  production  unit  shall  be  fully  responsible  for  ensuring  that  the 
retreaded  tyres  will  meet  the  requirements  of  this  Regulation  and  that  they  will  perform 
adequately in normal use. 

In  addition  to  the  normal  requirements  for  the  initial  assessment  of  the  tyre  retreading 
production  unit,  the  approval  authority  shall  be  satisfied  that  the  procedures,  operation, 
instructions  and  specification  documentation  provided  by  material  suppliers  are  in  a 
language readily understood by the tyre retreading production unit operatives. 

The  approval  authority  shall  ensure  that  the  procedures  and  operations  documentation  for 
each  production  unit  contains  specifications,  appropriate  to  the  repair  materials  and 
processes used, of the limits of repairable damage or penetrations to the tyre carcass, whether 
such damage is existing or is caused during the processes of preparation for retreading. 

Before granting approval the authority must be satisfied that retreaded tyres conform to this 
Regulation  and  that  the  tests  prescribed  in  paragraphs  6.7.  and 6.8.  have  been  successfully 
carried  out  on  at  least  5  and  not  necessarily  more  than  20  samples  of  retreaded  tyres 
representative of the range of tyres produced by the retreading production unit. 

5.5. 

In  the  case  of  each  failure  being  recorded  during  tests,  two  further  samples  of  the  same 
specification tyre shall be tested. 

EN 

56 

   EN 

 
If  either  or  both  of  these  second  two  samples  fail,  then  a  final  submission  of  two  samples 
shall be tested. 

If  either  or  both  of  the  final  two  samples  fail,  then  the  application  for  approval  of  the 
retreading production unit shall be rejected. 

If  all  the  requirements  of  this  Regulation  are  met,  then  approval  shall  be  granted  and  an 
approval number shall be assigned to each retreading production unit approved. The first two 
digits of this number shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the most recent 
major technical amendments made to the Regulation at the time of issue of the approval. The 
approval number shall be preceded by "108R" signifying that the approval applies to a tyre 
retreaded  as  prescribed  in  this  Regulation.  The  same  authority  shall  not  assign  the  same 
number to another production unit covered by this Regulation. 

Notice  of  approval  or  of  extension,  refusal  or  withdrawal  of  approval  or  of  production 
definitely discontinued pursuant to this Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to 
the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation, by means of a form conforming to the model 
in annex 1 to this Regulation. 

There shall be affixed conspicuously to every retreaded tyre conforming to this Regulation, 
in  the  space  referred  to  in  paragraph  3.3.  and  in  addition  to  the  markings  prescribed  in 
paragraph 3.2., an international approval mark consisting of: 

5.6. 

5.7. 

5.8. 

5.8.1.  A  circle  surrounding  the  letter  "E"  followed  by  the  distinguishing  number  of  the  country 

which granted approval18; and 

5.8.2.  An approval number as described in paragraph 5.6. 

5.9. 

Annex 2 to this Regulation gives an example of the arrangements of the approval mark. 

6. 

REQUIREMENTS  

6.1. 

Tyres  shall  not  be  accepted  for  retreading  unless  they  have  been  type  approved  and  bear 
either  an  "E"  or  "e"  mark,  except  that  this  requirement  shall  not  be  mandatory  until 
1 January 2000 at the latest. 

6.1.1.  High speed tyres which have only the inscription “ZR” within the tyre size designation and 

do not bear a service description shall not be retreaded. 

6.2. 

Tyres which have been previously retreaded shall not be accepted for further retreading. 

18 

1  for  Germany,  2  for  France,  3  for  Italy,  4  for  the  Netherlands,  5 for  Sweden,  6  for  Belgium,  7  for 
Hungary, 8 for the Czech Republic, 9 for Spain, 10 for Yugoslavia, 11 for the United Kingdom, 12 for 
Austria,  13 for  Luxembourg,  14  for  Switzerland,  15  (vacant),  16  for  Norway,  17 for  Finland,  18 for 
Denmark, 19 for Romania, 20 for Poland, 21 for Portugal, 22 for the Russian Federation, 23 for Greece, 
24  for  Ireland,  25 for  Croatia,  26 for  Slovenia,  27  for  Slovakia,  28  for  Belarus,  29 for  Estonia,  30 
(vacant),  31 for  Bosnia  and  Herzegovina,  32-36  (vacant),  37 for  Turkey,  38-39 (vacant),  40 for  The 
former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, 41 (vacant), 42 for the European Community (Approvals are 
granted  by  its  Member  States  using  their  respective  ECE  symbol)  and  43  for  Japan.  Subsequent 
numbers shall be assigned to other countries in the chronological order in which they ratify or accede to 
the  Agreement  Concerning  the  Adoption  of  Uniform  Technical  Prescriptions  for  Wheeled  Vehicles, 
Equipment and Parts which can be Fitted and/or be Used on Wheeled Vehicles and the Conditions for 
Reciprocal Recognition of Approvals Granted on the Basis of these Prescriptions, and the numbers thus 
assigned  shall  be  communicated  by  the  Secretary-General  of  the  United  Nations  to  the  Contracting 
Parties to the Agreement. 

EN 

57 

   EN 

 
                                                 
6.3. 

The  age  of  the  casing  accepted  for  retreading  shall  not  exceed  7 years,  based  on  the  digits 
showing the year of manufacture of the original tyre; e.g. the tyre marked with a date code 
"253" can be accepted for retreading till the end of the year 2000. 

6.4. 

Conditions before retreading: 

6.4.1. 

Tyres shall be clean and dry before inspection. 

6.4.2. 

Before  buffing,  each  tyre  shall  be  thoroughly  examined  both  internally  and  externally  to 
ensure its suitability for retreading. 

6.4.3. 

Tyres where damage is visible which has resulted from overload or underinflation shall not 
be retreaded. 

6.4.4. 

Tyres showing any of the following damage shall not be accepted for retreading: 

6.4.4.1.  (a) 

extensive cracking extending through to the carcass; 

(b) 

carcass penetrations or damage to casings above "H" speed symbol except where these 
casings are to be downrated to a lower speed symbol; 

(c) 

previous repairs to damage outside specified injury limits - see paragraph 5.3.; 

(d) 

carcass break up; 

(e) 

appreciable oil or chemical attack; 

(f)  multiple damage too close together; 

(g) 

damaged or broken bead; 

(h) 

non repairable deterioration of or damage to inner liner; 

(i) 

bead damage other than minor "rubber" only damage; 

(j) 

exposed cords due to tread wear or sidewall scuffing; 

(k) 

non-repairable tread or sidewall material separation from the carcass; 

(l) 

structural damage in the area of the sidewall. 

6.4.5. 

Radial  ply  tyre  carcasses  with  separation  in  the  belt,  other  than  slight  belt  edge  looseness, 
shall not be accepted for retreading. 

6.5. 

Preparation: 

6.5.1.  After buffing, and before the application of new material, each tyre shall be thoroughly re-

examined at least externally to ensure its continued suitability for retreading. 

6.5.2. 

The entire surface to which new material is to be applied shall have been prepared without 
overheating.  The  buffed  surface  texture  shall  not  contain  deep  buffing  lacerations  or  loose 
material. 

6.5.3.  Where  precured  material  is  to  be  used  the  contours  of  the  prepared  area  shall  meet  the 

requirements of the material manufacturer. 

EN 

58 

   EN 

 
6.5.4. 

Loose cord ends are not permissible. 

6.5.5. 

Casing cords shall not be damaged during the preparation process. 

6.5.6. 

Buffing  damage  to  the  belt  of  radial  tyres  shall  be  limited  to  localised  damage  to  the 
outermost layer only. 

6.5.7. 

Buffing damage limits for diagonal ply tyres shall be as follows: 

6.5.7.1.  For  two  ply  construction,  there  shall  not  be  any  damage  to  the  carcass  except  for  slight 

localised buffing damage to the casing joint. 

6.5.7.2.  For two ply plus breaker construction of tubeless type tyres, there shall not be any damage to 

the carcass or breaker. 

6.5.7.3.  For two ply plus breaker construction of tube type tyres, localised damage to the breaker is 

permissible. 

6.5.7.4.  For four ply, or more, construction of tubeless type tyres, there shall not be any damage to 

the carcass or breaker. 

6.5.7.5.  For  four  ply,  or  more,  construction  of  tube  type  tyres,  damage  shall  be  limited  to  the 

outermost ply in the crown area only. 

6.5.8. 

Exposed steel parts shall be treated as soon as possible with appropriate material as defined 
by the manufacturer of that appropriate material. 

6.6. 

Retreading: 

6.6.1. 

The  retreader  must  ensure  that  either  the  manufacturer  or  the  supplier  of  repair  materials, 
including patches, is responsible for the following: 

(a) 

(b) 

(c) 

(d) 

defining  method(s)  of  application  and  storage,  if  requested  by  the  retreader,  in  the 
national language of the country in which the materials are to be used; 

defining  limits  of  damage  for  which  the  materials  are  designed,  if  requested  by  the 
retreader, in the national language of the country in which the materials are to be used; 

ensuring  that  reinforced  patches  for  tyres,  if  correctly  applied  in  carcass  repairs,  are 
suitable for the purpose; 

ensuring  that  the  patches  are  capable  of  withstanding  twice  the  maximum  inflation 
pressure as given by the tyre manufacturer; 

(e) 

ensuring the suitability of any other repair materials for the service intended. 

6.6.2. 

6.6.3. 

The  retreader  shall  be  responsible  for  the  correct  application  of  the  repair  material  and  for 
ensuring that the repair is free from any defects which may affect the satisfactory service life 
of the tyre. 

The retreader shall ensure that either the manufacturer or the supplier of tread and sidewall 
material issues specifications concerning the conditions of storage and use of the material in 
order to guarantee the material's qualities. If requested by the retreader, this information shall 
be in the national language of the country in which the materials are to be used. 

EN 

59 

   EN 

 
6.6.4. 

6.6.5. 

The  retreader  must  ensure  that  the  repair  material  and/or  compound  is  documented  in  a 
manufacturer's  or  supplier's  certificate.  The  material  compound  must  be  suitable  for  the 
intended use of the tyre. 

The processed tyre shall be cured as soon as possible after the completion of all repairs and 
building-up  operations  and  at  the  latest  according  to  the  material  manufacturer's 
specifications. 

6.6.6. 

The  tyre  shall  be  cured  for  the  length  of  time  and  at  the  temperature  and  pressure, 
appropriate to, and specified for, the materials and processing equipment used. 

6.6.7. 

6.6.8. 

The dimensions of the mould shall be appropriate to the thickness of the new material and 
the  size  of  the  buffed  casing.  Radial  ply  tyres,  when  moulded,  shall  be  cured  in  radial  or 
radially divided moulds only. 

The  thickness  of  original  material  after  buffing  and  the  average  thickness  of  any  new 
material under the tread pattern after retreading shall be as given in paragraphs 6.6.8.1. and 
6.6.8.2. The thickness of material at any point either across the breadth of the tread or around 
the  circumference  of  the  tyre  shall  be  controlled  in  such  a  way  that  the  provisions  of 
paragraphs 6.7.5. and 6.7.6. are met. 

6.6.8.1.  For radial ply and bias belted tyres (mm): 

1.5 ≤ (A+B) ≤ 5 

(minimum 1.5 mm; maximum 5.0 mm)  

A ≥ 1  (minimum 1.0 mm) 

B ≥ 0.5 

(minimum 0.5 mm) 

P.D.  = 

Pattern depth 

X 

A 

 B 

= 

= 

= 

Buff line 

Average thickness of new material under pattern 

Minimum thickness of original material above belt after buffing 

EN 

60 

   EN 

 
 
6.6.8.2.  For diagonal (Bias-ply) tyres: 

The thickness of original material above the breaker shall be ≥ 0.00 mm. 

The average thickness of new material above the buffed casing line shall be ≥ 2.00 mm. 

The combined thickness of original and new material beneath the base of the grooves of the 
tread pattern shall be ≥ 2.00 and ≤ 5.00 mm. 

6.6.9. 

The service description of a retreaded tyre shall not show either a higher speed symbol or a 
higher load index than that of the original, first life, tyre. 

6.6.10.  The minimum speed capability of a retreaded tyre shall be 120 km/h ("L" speed symbol) and 

the maximum shall be 300 km/h ("Y" speed symbol). 

6.6.11.  Tread wear indicators shall be incorporated as follows: 

6.6.11.1.  The  retreaded  pneumatic  tyre  shall  include  not  less  than  six  transverse  rows  of  wear 
indicators, approximately equi-spaced and situated in the principal grooves of the tread. The 
tread  wear  indicators  shall  be  such  that  they  cannot  be  confused  with  the  material  ridges 
between the ribs or blocks of the tread. 

6.6.11.2.  However, in the case of tyres designed for mounting on rims of a nominal diameter of code 

12 or less, four rows of tread wear indicators are permissible. 

6.6.11.3.  The  tread  wear  indicators  shall  provide  a  means  of  indicating,  with  a  tolerance  of 

+0.60/-0.00 mm, when the tread grooves are no longer more than 1.6 mm deep. 

6.6.11.4.  The  height  of  the  tread  wear  indicators  shall  be  determined  by  measuring  the  difference 
between the depth from the tread surface to the top of the tread wear indicators and the base 
of the tread grooves, close to the slope at the base of the tread wear indicators. 

6.7. 

Inspection: 

6.7.1.  After  curing,  whilst  a  degree  of  heat  is  retained  in  a  tyre,  each  retreaded  tyre  shall  be 
examined to ensure that it is free from any apparent defects. During or after retreading the 
tyre must be inflated to at least 1.5 bar for examination. Where there is any apparent defect 
in the profile of the tyre (e.g. blister, depression, etc.) the tyre shall be specifically examined 
to determine the cause of this defect. 

6.7.2. 

Before, during or after retreading the tyre shall be checked at least once for the integrity of 
its structure by means of a suitable inspection method. 

6.7.3. 

For  the  purposes  of  quality  control  a  number  of  retreaded  tyres  shall  be  subjected  to 
destructive and/or non-destructive testing or examination. The quantity of tyres checked and 
the results shall be recorded. 

6.7.4.  After  retreading,  the  dimensions  of  the  retreaded  tyre,  when  measured  in  accordance  with 
annex  6  to  this  Regulation,  must  conform  either  to  dimensions  calculated  according  to  the 
procedures in paragraph 7 or to annex 5 to this Regulation. 

6.7.5. 

The  radial  run  out  of  the  retreaded  tyre  shall  not  exceed  1.5 mm  (+0.4 mm  measuring 
tolerance).  

EN 

61 

   EN 

 
6.7.6. 

The maximum static imbalance of the retreaded tyre, measured at the rim diameter, shall not 
exceed 1.5 per cent of the mass of the tyre. 

6.7.7. 

Tread wear indicators shall conform to the requirements of paragraph 6.6.11. 

6.8. 

Performance test: 

6.8.1. 

Tyres retreaded to comply with this Regulation shall be capable of  meeting the load/speed 
endurance test as specified in annex 7 to this Regulation. 

6.8.2.  A retreaded tyre which after undergoing the load/speed endurance test does not exhibit any 
tread separation, ply separation, cord separation, chunking or broken cords shall be deemed 
to have passed the test. 

6.8.3. 

The outer diameter of the tyre, measured six hours after the load/speed endurance test, must 
not differ by more than ± 3.5 per cent from the outer diameter as measured before the test. 

7. 

SPECIFICATIONS 

7.1. 

Tyres retreaded to comply with this Regulation shall conform to the following dimensions: 

7.1.1. 

Section width: 

7.1.1.1.  The section width shall be calculated by the following formula: 

S = S1 + K (A - A1) 

where: 

S : 

is the actual section width in millimetres as measured on the test rim; 

is the value of the 'Design Section Width', referred to the measuring rim, as quoted in 

S1: 
the International Tyre Standard specified by the retreader for the tyre size in question; 

A : 

is the width of the test rim in millimetres; 

is  the  width  in  millimetres  of  the  measuring  rim  as  quoted  in  the  International  Tyre 

A1: 
Standard specified by the retreader for the tyre size in question. 

K: 

is a factor and shall be taken to equal 0.4. 

7.1.2.  Outer diameter: 

7.1.2.1.  The  theoretical  outer  diameter  of  a  retreaded  tyre  shall  be  calculated  by  the  following 

formula: 

D = d + 2H 

where: 

D: 

is the theoretical outer diameter in millimetres; 

d: 

is the conventional number defined in paragraph 2.21.3., in millimetres; 

is  nominal  section  height  in  millimetres  and  is  equal  to  Sn  multiplied  by  0.01  Ra 

H: 
where: 

EN 

62 

   EN 

 
Sn: 

is the nominal section width in millimetres; 

Ra: 

is the nominal aspect ratio 

All of the above symbols are as quoted in the tyre size designation as shown on the sidewall 
of  the  tyre  in  conformity  with  the  requirements  of  paragraph  3.2.2.  and  as  defined  in 
paragraph 2.21. 

7.1.2.2.  However, for tyres whose designation is given in the first column of the tables in annex 5 to 

ECE Regulation No. 30, the outer diameter shall be that given in those tables. 

7.1.3. Method of measuring retreaded tyres: 

7.1.3.1.  The  dimensions  of  retreaded  tyres  shall  be  measured  in  accordance  with  the  procedures 

given in annex 6 to this Regulation. 

7.1.4. 

Section width specifications: 

7.1.4.1.  The  actual  overall  width  may  be  less  than  the  section  width  or  widths  determined  in 

paragraph 7.1. 

7.1.4.2.  The actual overall width may also exceed the value or values determined in paragraph 7.1. 

by:  

7.1.4.2.1. 4 per cent in the case of radial ply tyres and 

7.1.4.2.2. 6 per cent in the case of diagonal (bias-ply) or bias belted tyres. 

7.1.4.2.3. in addition, if the tyre has a special protective band, the width may be greater by up to 8 mm 

above the tolerances given by paragraphs 7.1.4.2.1. and 7.1.4.2.2. 

7.1.5.  Outer diameter specifications: 

7.1.5.1.  The  actual  outer  diameter  of  a  retreaded  tyre  must  not  be  outside  the  values  of  Dmin  and 

Dmax obtained by the following formulae: 

Dmin = d + (2H x a) 

Dmax = d + (2H x b) 

where: 

7.1.5.1.1. For sizes not given in the tables in annex 5 to this Regulation, "H" and "d" are as defined in 

paragraph 7.1.2.1. 

7.1.5.1.2. For sizes mentioned in paragraph 7.1.2.2. above: 

H = 0.5 (D - d) 

where  "D"  is  the  outer  diameter  and  "d"  the  Nominal  rim  diameter  quoted  in  the  above-
mentioned tables for the size in question. 

7.1.5.1.3. The coefficient "a" = 0.97 

7.1.5.1.4. The coefficient "b" is: 

EN 

63 

   EN 

 
Radial tyres 

Diagonal  (bias-ply)  and 
bias belted tyres 

for normal use tyres 

1.04 

1.08 

7.1.5.2.  For snow tyres the maximum outer diameter (Dmax) calculated in paragraph 7.1.5.1. may be 

exceeded by not more than 1 per cent. 

8. 

MODIFICATIONS TO THE APPROVAL 

8.1. 

Every modification concerning a retreading production unit amending any of the information 
given  by  the  retreading  production  unit  in  the  Application  for  Approval,  see  paragraph  4, 
shall  be  notified  to  the  approval  authority  which  approved  the  retreading  production  unit. 
That authority may then either: 

8.1.1. 

Consider that the modifications made are unlikely to have an appreciable adverse effect and 
that in any case the retreading production unit still meets the requirements; or 

8.1.2. 

Require a further investigation of the approval. 

8.2. 

Confirmation  of,  or  refusal  of,  approval,  specifying 
the  modifications,  shall  be 
communicated by the procedure specified in paragraph 5.7. to the Parties to the Agreement 
which apply this Regulation. 

9. 

CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION 

The conformity of production procedures shall comply with those set out in the Agreement, 
Appendix 2 (E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505/Rev.2), with the following requirements. 

9.1. 

9.2. 

The  retreading  production  unit  approved  according  to  this  Regulation  shall  conform  to  the 
requirements set out in paragraph 6. 

The  holder  of  the  approval  shall  ensure  that,  during  each  year  of  production,  and  spread 
throughout that year, at least the following number of tyres, representative of the range being 
produced, is checked and tested as prescribed in this Regulation: 

9.2.1. 

0.01  per  cent  of  the  total  annual  production  but  in  any  case  not  less  than  5  and  not 
necessarily more than 20. 

9.3. 

9.4. 

If the requirements of paragraph 9.2. are carried out by or under the control of the approval 
authority, the results may be used as part of, or instead of, those prescribed in paragraph 9.4. 

The authority which has approved the retreading production unit may at any time verify the 
conformity control methods applied in each production facility. For each production facility 
the type approval authority shall take samples at random during each and every production 
year and at least the following number of tyres, representative of the range being produced, 
shall be checked and tested as prescribed in this Regulation: 

9.4.1. 

0.01  per  cent  of  the  total  annual  production  but  in  any  case  not  less  than  5  and  not 
necessarily more than 20. 

9.5. 

The tests and checks of paragraph 9.4. may replace those required in paragraph 9.2. 

10. 

PENALTIES FOR NON-CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION 

EN 

64 

   EN 

 
10.1. 

10.2. 

The approval granted in respect of a retreading production unit pursuant to this Regulation 
may  be  withdrawn  if  the  requirements  of  paragraph  9  are  not  complied  with  or  if  the 
retreading production unit or the retreaded tyres produced by that retreading production unit 
have failed to meet the requirements prescribed in that paragraph. 

If  a  Party  to  the  Agreement  which  applies  this  Regulation  withdraws  an  approval  it  has 
previously  granted,  it  shall  forthwith  so  notify  the  other  Contracting  Parties  to  the  1958 
Agreement applying this Regulation, by means of a communication form conforming to the 
model shown in annex 1 to this Regulation. 

11. 

PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED 

The authority which granted the approval of the retreading production unit shall be informed 
if  operations  and  manufacture  of  retreaded  tyres  approved  within  the  scope  of  this 
Regulation  cease.  On  receipt  of  this  information  the  authority  shall  communicate  this 
information to the other Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation by means of 
a communication form conforming to the model shown in annex 1 to this Regulation. 

NAMES  AND  ADDRESSES  OF  TECHNICAL  SERVICES  RESPONSIBLE  FOR 
CONDUCTING  APPROVAL  TESTS,  OF  TEST  LABORATORIES,  AND  OF 
ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS 

The  Parties  to  the  1958  Agreement  which  apply  this  Regulation  shall  communicate  to  the 
United Nations Secretariat the names and addresses of the technical services responsible for 
conducting approval tests and, where applicable, of the approved test laboratories and of the 
administrative departments which grant approval and to which forms certifying approval or 
refusal or withdrawal of approval, issued in other countries, are to be sent. 

The Parties to the 1958 Agreement which apply this Regulation may use laboratories of tyre 
manufacturers  or  retreading  production  units  and  may  designate,  as  approved  test 
laboratories, those which are situated either in the territory of that Party or in the territory of 
another Party to the 1958 Agreement subject to a preliminary acceptance of this procedure 
by the competent administrative department of the latter. 

12. 

12.1. 

12.2. 

12.3.  Where  a  Party  to  the  1958  Agreement  applies  paragraph  12.2.,  it  may,  if  it  desires,  be 

represented at the tests. 

_________ 

EN 

65 

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Annex 1 

COMMUNICATION 

(maximum format: A4 (210 x 297 mm)) 

issued by: 

Name of administration: 

....................... 

....................... 

....................... 

concerning: 2/  APPROVAL GRANTED 

APPROVAL EXTENDED 

APPROVAL REFUSED 

APPROVAL WITHDRAWN 

PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED 

of a retreading production unit pursuant to Regulation No. 108 

Approval No.: ..........  Extension No.:............ 

1. 

2. 

Retreader's name or trade mark: ........................................................................................................... 

Name and address of retreading production unit:................................................................................. 

.............................................................................................................................................................. 

3. 

If applicable, name and address of retreader's representative: ............................................................. 

.............................................................................................................................................................. 

4. 

5. 

Summarized description as in paragraphs 4.1.3. and 4.1.4. of this Regulation:................................... 

Technical service and, where applicable, test laboratory approved for purposes of approval or 
verification of conformity: ................................................................................................................... 

.............................................................................................................................................................. 

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6. 

7. 

8. 

9. 

Date of report issued by that service: ................................................................................................... 

Number of report issued by that service:.............................................................................................. 

Reason(s) of extension (if applicable):................................................................................................. 

Any remarks: ........................................................................................................................................ 

10. 

Place: .................................................................................................................................................... 

11. 

Date: ..................................................................................................................................................... 

12. 

Signature............................................................................................................................................... 

13. 

Annexed  to  this  communication  is  a  list  of  documents  in  the  approval  file  deposited  at  the 
Approval  Authority  which  has  considered  this  approval  and  which  can  be  obtained  upon 
request. 

_________ 

___________ 

1/ 

Distinguishing  number  of  the  country  which  has  granted/extended/refused/withdrawn  an 
approval (see approval provisions in the Regulation). 

2/ 

Delete that which does not apply. 

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Annex 2 

ARRANGEMENT OF APPROVAL MARK 

a = 12 mm min  

The  above  approval  mark  affixed  to  a  retreaded  tyre  shows  that  the  retreading  production  unit 
concerned has been approved in the Netherlands (E4) under approval number 108R002439, meeting 
the requirements of this Regulation in its original form (00). 

The approval number must be placed close to the circle and either above or below the "E" or left or 
right of that letter. The digits of the approval number must be on the same side of the "E" and face in 
the  same  direction.  The  use  of  Roman  numerals  as  approval  numbers  should  be  avoided  so  as  to 
prevent any confusion with other symbols. 

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Annex 3 

ARRANGEMENT OF RETREAD TYRE MARKINGS 

Example of the markings to be borne by retreaded tyres placed on the market 

after the entry into force of this Regulation 

b : 6 mm (min.) 

c : 4 mm (min.) 

d : 3 mm (min.) 

 and from 1998, 4 mm (min.) 

These markings define a retreaded tyre:  

having a nominal section width of 185; 

having a nominal aspect ratio of 70; 

of radial-ply structure (R); 

having a nominal rim diameter of code 14; 

having a service description "89T" indicating a load capacity of 580 kg corresponding to a 
load index of "89" and a maximum speed capability of 190 km/h corresponding to a speed 
symbol "T"; 

for fitting without an inner tube ("TUBELESS"); 

of snow type (M+S); 

retreaded in the weeks 25, 26, 27 or 28 of the year 2003. 

The positioning and order of the markings constituting the tyre designation shall be as follows:  

(a) 

(b) 

the  size  designation,  comprising  the  nominal  section  width,  the  nominal  aspect  ratio,  the 
type-of-structure symbol (where applicable) and the nominal rim diameter shall be grouped 
as shown in the above example: 185/70 R 14; 

the service description comprising the load index and the speed symbol shall be placed near 
the  size  designation.  It  may  either  precede  the  size  designation  or  follow  it  or  be  placed 
above or below it; 

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(c) 

the symbols  "TUBELESS", "REINFORCED", and  "M + S"  may be at a distance from the 
size designation. 

(d) 

the word "RETREAD" may be at a distance from the size designation. 

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Annex 4 

LIST OF LOAD INDICES AND CORRESPONDING LOAD CAPACITIES 

Load index (LI) and load capacity - kg

LI 

 kg 

LI 

kg 

LI 

kg 

LI 

kg 

LI 

kg 

LI 

kg 

LI 

kg 

 0 

45 

 40  

 140

 80 

 450  

 120 

 1 400

 160 

 4 500

 200 

14 000 

 240

45 000 

 1 

 46.2 

 41 

 145

 81 

 462 

 121 

 1 450

 161 

 4 625

 201 

14 500 

 241

46 250 

 2 

 47.5 

 42 

 150

 82 

 475 

 122 

 1 500

 162 

 4 750

 202 

15 000 

 242

47 500 

 3 

 48.7 

 43 

 155

 83 

 487 

 123 

 1 550

 163 

 4 875

 203 

15 500 

 243

48 750 

 4 

 50 

 44 

 160

 84 

 500 

 124 

 1 600

 164 

 5 000

 204 

16 000 

 244

50 000 

 5 

 51.5 

 45 

 165

 85 

 515 

 125 

 1 650

 165 

 5 150

 205 

16 500 

 245

51 500 

 6 

 53 

 46 

 170

 86 

 530 

 126 

 1 700

 166 

 5 300

 206 

17 000 

 246

53 000 

 7 

 54.5 

 47 

 175

 87 

 545 

 127 

 1 750

 167 

 5 450

 207 

17 500 

 247

54 500 

 8 

 9 

 56 

 48 

 180

 88 

 560 

 128 

 1 800

 168 

 5 600

 208 

18 000 

 248

56 000 

 58 

 49 

 185

 89 

 580 

 129 

 1 850

 169 

 5 800

 209 

18 500 

 249

58 000 

 10 

 60 

 50 

 190

 90 

 600 

 130 

 1 900

 170 

 6 000

 210 

19 000 

 250

60 000 

 11 

 61.5 

 51 

 195

 91 

 615 

 131 

 1 950

 171 

 6 150

 211 

19 500 

 251

61 500 

 12 

 63 

 52 

 200

 92 

 630 

 132 

 2 000

 172 

 6 300

 212 

20 000 

 252

63 000 

 13 

 65 

 53 

 206

 93 

 650 

 133 

 2 060

 173 

 6 500

 213 

20 600 

 253

65 000 

 14 

 67 

 54 

 212

 94 

 670 

 134 

 2 120

 174 

 6 700

 214 

21 200 

 254

67 000 

 15 

 69 

 55 

 218

 95 

 690 

 135 

 2 180

 175 

 6 900

 215 

21 800 

 255

69 000 

 16 

 71 

 56 

 224

 96 

 710 

 136 

 2 240

 176 

 7 100

 216 

22 400 

 256

71 000 

 17 

 73 

 57 

 230

 97 

 730 

 137 

 2 300

 177 

 7 300

 217 

23 000 

 257

73 000 

 18 

 75 

 58 

 236

 98 

 750 

 138 

 2 360

 178 

 7 500

 218 

23 600 

 258

75 000 

 19 

 77.5 

 59 

 243

 99 

 775 

 139 

 2 430

 179 

 7 750

 219 

24 300 

 259

77 500 

 20 

 80 

 60 

 250

100 

 800 

 140 

 2 500

 180 

 8 000

 220 

25 000 

 260

80 000 

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 21 

 82.5 

 61 

 257

 101 

 825 

 141 

 2 575

 181 

 8 250

 221 

25 750 

 261

82 500 

 22 

 85 

 62 

 265

 102 

 850 

 142 

 2 650

 182 

 8 500

 222 

26 500 

 262

85 000 

 23 

 87.5 

 63 

 272

 103 

 875 

 143 

 2 725

 183 

 8 750

 223 

27 250 

 263

87 500 

 24 

 90 

 64 

 280

 104 

 900 

 144 

 2 800

 184 

 9 000

 224 

28 000 

 264

90 000 

 25 

 92.5 

 65 

 290

 105 

 925 

 145 

 2 900

 185 

 9 250

 225 

29 000 

 265

92 500 

 26 

 95 

 66 

 300

 106 

 950 

 146 

 3 000

 186 

 9 500

 226 

30 000 

 266

95 000 

 27 

 97.5 

 67 

 307

 107 

 975 

 147 

 3 075

 187 

 9 750

 227 

30 750 

 267

97 500 

 28 

 100 

 68 

 315

 108 

 1 000 

 148 

 3 150

 188 

10 000

 228 

31 500 

 268

100 000

 29 

 103 

 69 

 325

 109 

 1 030 

 149 

 3 250

 189 

10 300

 229 

32 500 

 269

103 000

 30 

 106 

 70 

 335

 110 

 1 060 

 150 

 3 350

 190 

10 600

 230 

33 500 

 270

106 000

 31 

 109 

 71 

 345

 111 

 1 090 

 151 

 3 450

 191 

10 900

 231 

34 500 

 271

109 000

 32 

 112 

 72 

 355

 112 

 1 120 

 152 

 3 550

 192 

11 200

 232 

35 500 

 272

112 000

 33 

 115 

 73 

 365

 113 

 1 150 

 153 

 3 650

 193 

11 500

 233 

36 500 

 273

115 000

 34 

 118 

 74 

 375

 114 

 1 180 

 154 

 3 750

 194 

11 800

 234 

37 500 

 274

118 000

 35 

 121 

 75 

 387

 115 

 1 215 

 155 

 3 875

 195 

12 150

 235 

38 750 

 275

121 500

 36 

 125 

 76 

 400

 116 

 1 250 

 156 

 4 000

 196 

12 500

 236 

40 000 

 276

125 000

 37 

 128 

 77 

 412

 117 

 1 285 

 157 

 4 125

 197 

12 850

 237 

41 250 

 277

128 500

 38 

 132 

 78 

 425

 118 

 1 320 

 158 

 4 250

 198 

13 200

 238 

42 500 

 278

132 000

 39 

 136 

 79 

 437

 119  

 1 360 

 159 

 4 375

 199 

13 600

 239 

43 750  

 279

136 000

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Annex 5 

TYRE SIZE DESIGNATION AND DIMENSIONS 

(IN ACCORDANCE WITH ECE REGULATION No. 30) 

FOR THIS INFORMATION REFER TO ANNEX 5 OF ECE REGULATION No. 30 

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Annex 6 

METHOD OF MEASURING PNEUMATIC TYRES 

1. 

Preparing the tyre 

1.1. 

The  tyre  shall  be  mounted  on  the  test  rim  specified  by  the  retreader  and  inflated  to  the 
pressure of 3 to 3.5 bar. 

1.2. 

The tyre pressure shall be adjusted as follows: 

1.2.1. 

for standard bias belted tyres - to 1.7 bar; 

1.2.2 

for diagonal (bias ply) tyres - to: 

Ply rating 
4 
6 
8 

L, M, N 
1.7 
2.1 
2.5 

Pressure (bar) for Speed symbol 
P, Q, R, S 
2.0 
2.4 
2.8 

T, U, H, V 
- 
2.6 
3.0 

1.2.3. 

for standard radial tyres - to 1.8 bar; 

1.2.4. 

for reinforced tyres - to 2.3 bar. 

2. 

Measuring procedure 

2.1. 

The tyre, mounted on its rim, shall be conditioned at the ambient room temperature for not 
less than 24 hr, save as otherwise required by paragraph 6.8.3. of this Regulation. 

2.2. 

The tyre pressure shall be readjusted to the level specified in paragraph 1.2. of this annex. 

2.3. 

2.4. 

The  overall  width  shall  be  measured  at  six  equally  spaced  points  around  the  tyre,  taking 
account of the thickness of any protective ribs or bands. The highest reading obtained shall 
be taken as the overall width. 

The outer diameter shall be calculated from a measurement of the maximum circumference 
of the inflated tyre. 

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Annex 7 

PROCEDURE FOR LOAD/SPEED ENDURANCE TESTS 

(IN PRINCIPLE IN ACCORDANCE WITH ANNEX 7 OF REGULATION No. 30) 

1. 

Preparing the tyre 

1.1. 

Mount a retreaded tyre on the test rim specified by the retreader. 

1.2. 

Inflate the tyre to the appropriate pressure as given (in bar) in the table below:  

Diagonal (bias-ply) 
tyres 

Radial Tyres 

Bias-belted tyres 

Speed Category 

Ply-rating 

Standard 

Reinforced 

Standard 

4 

6 

8 

L, M, N 

2.3 

2.7 

3.0 

2.4 

P, Q, R, S 

2.6 

3.0 

3.3 

2.6 

T, U, H 

2.8 

3.2 

3.5 

2.8 

V 

3.0 

3.4 

3.7 

3.0 

W and Y 

- 

- 

- 

3.2 

- 

3.0 

3.2 

3.4 

3.6 

- 

2.6 

2.8 

- 

- 

1.3. 

The  retreading  production  unit  may  request,  giving  reasons,  the  use  of  a  test  inflation 
pressure different from those given in paragraph 1.2. of this annex. In this case the tyre shall 
be inflated to the requested pressure. 

1.4. 

Condition the tyre and wheel assembly at test-room temperature for not less than three hours. 

1.5. 

Readjust the tyre pressure to that specified in paragraph 1.2. or 1.3. of this annex. 

2. 

Test procedure  

2.1. 

Mount  the  tyre  and  wheel  assembly  on  a  test  axle  and  press  it  against  the  outer  face  of  a 
smooth surfaced power driven test drum either 1.70 m ± 1 per cent or 2.00 m ± 1 per cent 
diameter. 

2.2. 

Apply to the test axle a load equal to 80 per cent of:  

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2.2.1. 

the maximum load rating corresponding to the Load Index for tyres with Speed Symbols L to 
H inclusive, 

2.2.2. 

the  maximum  load  rating  associated  with  a  maximum  speed  (see  paragraph  2.35.2  of  this 
Regulation) of: 

•  240 km/h in the case of tyres of Speed symbol “V”, 
•  270 km/h in the case of tyres of Speed symbol “W”, 
•  300 km/h in the case of tyres of Speed symbol “Y”. 

2.3. 

2.4. 

2.5. 

Throughout  the  test  the  tyre  pressure  must  not  be corrected  and  the  test  load  must  be  kept 
constant. 

During the test the temperature in the test-room must be maintained at between 20° and 30°C 
unless the tyre manufacturer or retreader agrees to a higher temperature. 

The  endurance  test  programme  shall  be  carried  out  without  interruption  and  shall  be  as 
follows: 

2.5.1 

time taken from zero speed to initial test speed: 10 minutes;  

2.5.2. 

initial test speed: prescribed maximum speed for the tyre concerned, less 40 km/h in the case 
of a test drum of 1.70 m ± 1 per cent diameter or less 30 km/h in the case of a test drum of 
2.00m ± 1 per cent diameter; 

2.5.3. 

successive speed increments: 10 km/h up to the maximum test speed; 

2.5.4. 

duration of test at each speed step except the last: 10 minutes; 

2.5.5. 

duration of test at last speed step: 20 minutes; 

2.5.6.  maximum test speed: prescribed maximum speed for the tyre concerned, less 10 km/h in the 
case of a test drum of 1.70 m ± 1 per cent diameter or the prescribed maximum speed in the 
case of a test drum of 2.00 m ± 1 per cent diameter. 

3. 

Equivalent test methods 

If  a  method  other  than  that  described  in  paragraph  2  of  this  annex  is  used,  its  equivalence 
must be demonstrated. 

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Annex 8 

EXPLANATORY FIGURE 

See paragraph 2 of this Regulation 

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