The ratings on Goodyear Tire&Rubber Co. reflect the company's leading market position, albeit in a highly competitive industry, and expectations that debt-protection measures will improve from currently depressed levels during the next two years. Goodyear is the world's largest tire manufacturer, supplying replacement and original equipment segments of the industry. The company also produces rubber-related industrial and automotive components and chemicals. Goodyear has reported very disappointing financial results for the past two and a half years. In 1999, the company generated only $243 million in net income (net of $172 million in restructuring charges), compared with $682 million in 1998 (including $61 million in net gains). In 2000, the company generated just $40 million in net income (net
