Off-the-road (OTR) tires are specifically designed for heavy-duty, off-road vehicles, built to endure conditions that would render most vehicles inoperative. However, what occurs when these tires fail to function as anticipated? To avoid expensive blowout replacements and repairs, fleet managers must ensure that their OTR tires are correctly inspected and well-maintained. In this article, we present 3 easy methods for examining and preserving OTR tires.
Regular Checkups Before embarking on a trip, during travel, and upon reaching the destination, your tires should be meticulously inspected, particularly in terms of air pressure. Be sure to examine the following aspects:
Air Pressure: Confirm that each tire is inflated to the appropriate levels, avoiding underinflation or overinflation.
Valve Caps: Verify that each valve cap is fastened securely to prevent air leakage and poor inflation.
Tread Depth: Routinely assess the tread depth of your tires to ensure their ability to tackle upcoming tasks.
Sidewalls: Visually inspect the sidewalls of your tires for any abnormalities that may necessitate immediate repair or replacement, such as cracking, bulging, tearing, or dry rot.
By performing regular tire inspections, you can identify the need for repairs or maintenance before more expensive issues emerge.
Preventative Measures to Preserve OTR Tires
Fleet managers can also employ preventative methods to avoid OTR tire damage. By implementing a few precautionary steps, managers can prolong the lifespan of their tires and avert costly repairs or replacements:
Sealant
Equipping tires with internal sealant can help prevent air loss by sealing punctures as they occur. Tire Pressure Management Systems: These systems offer operators real-time data regarding their OTR tire pressure, enabling them to maintain optimal tire performance. Consider integrating these preventative measures into your fleet to prolong the lifespan of your OTR tires.
Maintenance Plans and OTR Tires
Developing a routine maintenance plan is vital for ensuring the reliability and longevity of your tires. Employing a TIA-certified tire technician to professionally inspect your tires offers the following benefits:
- Inflation and flat-tire inspections using calibrated air gauges
- Tread depth measurements
- Damage assessments, including flat spots, cuts, tread lifts, and unusual wear patterns
- Detection of misaligned valve stems, spun/damaged wheels, missing valve caps, leaking oil seals, and more Wheel nut tightening and torque correction
- Examination of vehicle damage contributing to downtime
A formal maintenance review conducted by a certified technician not only supplies valuable information about your OTR tires but also guarantees that your vehicle is in prime condition to handle its expected workload.
