Abstract: A machine for reducing worn-out vehicle tires to small chip-like particles comprises a frame on which an elongated shaft is journaled for rotation, the shaft having a first and second plurality of rotary cutting blades, each of a different diameter affixed to the shaft so as to be rotatable therewith. Also affixed to the frame is a set of stationary cutter bars whose sharpened edges are disposed within a predetermined close tolerance to the periphery of the rotary cutting blades. A large, massive flywheel is attached to one end of the shaft and is driven by a suitable motor. Surrounding the rotary cutting blades is a shroud which, in turn, suppots an infeed hopper having a spiked drum journaled therein.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for seating tubeless tires, particularly large tubeless truck tires, on a rim. A tank having a volume related to the internal volume of the largest tire to be seated is charged with compressed air at a pressure which is within the range of pressures considered safe for general purpose vehicular applications. A discharge barrel having an internal passage with an area of from 8 to 20 square centimeters is disposed between the tank and the bead of the tire and positioned so that air discharged therefrom strikes the bead from a direction roughly perpendicular to the plane of the bead. An approximately full-flow valve, positioned in flow control relationship to the barrel, is opened abruptly to direct a pneumatic pulse having a fast-rising leading edge against the bead. The bead then seats on the rim as a result of the combined effect of the motion imparted thereto by the impact of the pulse and the air injected into the tire in connection with that impact.