How to Spec and Maintain Truck Tires for Optimal Performance
Tires affect everything from fuel economy to vehicle safety, and different types of trucking applications and operating environments require specific tire designs that align with operational demands. Tire selection can also depend on organizational goals, such as improving fuel economy or reducing weight.
Chris Hough, vice president of maintenance design and engineering at Penske Truck Leasing, recommends that fleets identify their top priorities, such as fuel economy, run-out mileage or traction, and then talk to their suppliers about the options that meet their needs. "Understand that there may be tradeoffs, so it's key to understand those up front," he said.
Tire selection can drastically impact a fleet’s maintenance and running costs. “It can impact how much you spend on fuel and how often units are in the shop, reducing your uptime,” Hough said. “On the flip side, the wrong size can increase your fuel consumption or cause premature removal for irregular wear, increasing your maintenance costs.”
Choosing the right tire is only part of the process. “If you don't maintain the tire properly by managing air pressures properly and dual mating, all the engineering and technology that went into making the tire the best for your application will go to waste,” Hough said.
Regular inspections for signs of damage, irregular wear and tread depth are essential. Proper tread depth affects safety and handling and can help prevent a roadside violation. Penske recommends replacing tires before they reach the minimum tread depth requirements set by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Penske's pull points are 5/32 and 3/32, while the DOT requires 4/32 for steer tires and 2/32 for drive and trailer tires.
Tire pressures are a critical factor in tire performance and lifespan. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption, while overinflated tires are more susceptible to punctures and uneven wear.
Additionally, misaligned wheels and imbalanced tires can accelerate tire wear and decrease fuel efficiency. Ensuring proper wheel alignment and balance during routine maintenance checks helps extend tire life and promotes even wear across all tires.
“At Penske, we view tire management holistically and as a key focus of our maintenance program,” Hough said. “We consider more than just the invoice price for the tire. We believe it is also important to consider the quality of service from our partners and see the tire as an investment, not just a part.”