Tires are one of the largest running costs for any trucking fleet. Good maintenance habits extend tread life, protect casings for retreading and reduce roadside breakdowns.
1. Check pressure cold, and often
Under-inflation is the leading cause of early tire wear and failure. Check pressures with a calibrated gauge when tires are cold, at least weekly, and inflate to the pressure that matches your actual axle loads.
2. Match your duals
Dual tires should be closely matched in diameter, tread depth and pressure. A mismatched pair forces one tire to carry more load and wear faster.
3. Keep alignment in check
Poor alignment causes irregular wear, especially on steer tires. Check alignment when you see feathering, shoulder wear or the truck pulling to one side.
4. Inspect before every trip
Look for cuts, bulges, exposed cords, objects in the tread and damaged valve stems. Remove any tire with sidewall damage from service.
5. Rotate and reposition
Moving tires between positions at the right time can even out wear. Follow your tire maker's guidance on which moves are allowed.
6. Protect the casing
A sound casing can be retreaded, often more than once, which lowers cost per mile. Pull tires for retreading before the tread wears too low.
7. Track every tire
Record DOT codes, positions, pressures and tread depths. Tracking shows which positions, routes or drivers wear tires fastest.
Need replacement tires? Rio Tires supplies steer, drive and trailer tires to fleets across the USA and Canada. Call +1 (805) 666-5977 or send an enquiry.