Truck tire maintenance is crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of any rig. Neglecting regular tire maintenance routines can lead to tire failure, which could cause serious accidents on the road. Despite this, a recent poll with truck tire experts shows that the most commonly ignored practice in truck tire maintenance is performing a hands-on tire inspection. This is a concerning trend, given that a tire inspection is not only one of the easiest and quickest maintenance routines to perform but also one of the most important.
Commercial tires are the part that connects the truck to the road and keeps the freight moving along. Although new technologies and stronger materials have made our tires stronger, more durable, and more efficient, they should not be ignored. Even a minor abrasion could lead to disastrous consequences, so it is vital to follow some of these mechanics’ tips when it comes to maintaining your tires.
Regular Inspection
Every experienced truck driver knows what a healthy tire should look like, making it unacceptable to skip this step. Drivers should take a quick walk around the truck and look for any obvious signs of wear at the end of any trip. Preferably, they should also take a quick look at every stop during a trip. This can help identify any visible signs of wear or damage that could be indicative of underlying issues.
Watch Your PSI
Before riding with any new set of tires, drivers should be aware of the manufacturer’s specifications for proper PSI. They should monitor this throughout every trip and make sure to fill any tires that have lost pressure due to regular wear and tear. If any tires drop below the recommended PSI, then they should be filled as soon as possible. This helps maintain the structural integrity of the tire and ensures that it remains in contact with the road.
See a Technician
If a driver notices any sort of abrasion, scuff, or wear and tear, they should see a technician as soon as possible to have it addressed. These professionals can diagnose all tire problems and will provide the highest level of service. When a professional services the tires, drivers can be confident that they will be safe and effective on the road. Tire experts can help identify any underlying issues with the tire and can advise the best course of action to keep the tire in optimal condition.
Keep Tires Consistent
It is essential to use the same brand, style, and tread depth for all tires on the truck. If a tire needs replacement, it should match the rest of the tires on the vehicle. Using various tread depths or tire styles could cause significant damage to the vehicle as a whole because the tires will not work together. Drivers need to ensure that they have consistent traction throughout every part of the truck.
Use Flat Straps
When lifting tires for maintenance, it is important to use flat straps that are designed to lift the tire from the bottom of the tread. Using crane hooks or steel chains can harm the bed area, causing unnecessary damage to the tire during the lifting process. Flat straps are more gentle and will help maintain the structural integrity of the tire.
Performing a hands-on tire inspection is one of the easiest and quickest maintenance routines to perform and one of the most important. Regular tire maintenance helps extend the life of the tires, improves fuel efficiency, and reduces the risk of accidents. Neglecting regular tire maintenance routines, such as hands-on tire inspection, can lead to tire failure, which could cause serious accidents on the road.
By following these tips, truck drivers and fleet managers can help maintain their tires’ health, prevent damage, and ensure the safety of everyone on the road. Tires are the lifeline of any truck, and proper maintenance is essential to keep them in optimal condition.
