The shop manager came out to look at the flat which I had set in the back of the pickup. It has a twisted section now that it has no air. He agreed it was defective. This combined with fact that one of the front ones has developed a bit of a bulge on last week's trip means I need to completely re-shoe the old gal.Strangely the shop's suppliers do not carry P225/70R/14 or compatible tires. He did test the wear and came up with some calculations so that I'll get about $45 back for each tire. I have to physically return them in order for claim the rebate. It may not cover half of the cost of new ones but it'll help.
So, I will visit the Hyack Tire which is practically across the street from where I live. I often have my oil changed there, so I will already be in their computer. They might be a little pricier but having four, new tires will make me feel more comfortable on the road.