Maintaining the pressure in truck tyre is critical for safety, performance, and fuel efficiency. Trucks, whether light trucks, medium, or heavy-duty, operate under demanding conditions. Incorrect tyre pressure can lead to uneven wear, reduced handling, increased fuel consumption, and even accidents. In this guide, we’ll explore why pressure in truck tyre matters, how to measure and maintain it, and the best practices for different types of trucks.
Table of Contents
Why Pressure in Truck Tyre Matters
The pressure in truck tyre directly affects vehicle safety and performance. Properly inflated tyres ensure that:
- The tyre maintains maximum contact with the road, improving traction.
- Load is evenly distributed across the tyre, reducing the risk of blowouts.
- Tyres wear evenly, prolonging their lifespan.
- Fuel efficiency is optimized because underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance.
For truck drivers, understanding and monitoring tyre pressure is not just a matter of safety — it is also a regulatory requirement in many countries, including Australia. Road safety authorities often mandate regular tyre inspections to ensure that commercial vehicles are compliant.
Light Truck Tyre Pressure
Light trucks, often used for delivery services, small cargo, or utility purposes, have different pressure requirements compared to heavy trucks. Generally, light truck tyre pressure ranges from 50 to 80 psi depending on the tyre size and load. Underinflated tyres can cause excessive heat build-up, while overinflated tyres reduce traction and comfort.
Tips for maintaining light truck tyre pressure:
- Check tyres weekly before long trips.
- Use a reliable tyre pressure gauge; digital gauges are highly recommended for accuracy.
- Adjust pressure according to load. A fully loaded van requires slightly higher pressure than an empty one.
- Avoid checking pressure immediately after driving, as heat can give false high readings.
Medium to Heavy Truck Tyre Pressure
For medium to heavy truck tyre pressure, the stakes are higher. Heavy trucks often carry multiple tons of cargo, and improper tyre pressure can lead to catastrophic tyre failures. Standard medium to heavy truck tyre pressure usually ranges between 90 and 120 psi, but this can vary by tyre manufacturer and load distribution.
Key considerations:
- Axle Load Distribution: Ensure that each axle’s tyres are inflated according to the load they carry. Incorrect distribution can increase wear on one side.
- Temperature Effects: Tyre pressure increases as tyres heat up during long hauls. Always check pressure when tyres are cold to get accurate readings.
- Spare Tyres: Maintain the same pressure in spares as in the active tyres to prevent issues in case of replacement.
How to Measure and Monitor Tyre Pressure
Regular monitoring of pressure in truck tyre is essential. Here are the common methods:
1. Manual Tyre Gauge
- Affordable and reliable.
- Can be digital or analog.
- Must be used on cold tyres for accuracy.
2. Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)
- These systems provide real-time data for all tyres.
- Ideal for heavy trucks and fleets.
- Can alert drivers to underinflation, overinflation, or leaks.
- Solar-powered or wired TPMS options are available for continuous monitoring.
3. Visual Inspection
- Not a replacement for proper pressure checks.
- Look for bulges, uneven wear, or cracks.
- Can indicate chronic underinflation or overloading.
Common Causes of Pressure Loss in Truck Tyres
Several factors contribute to pressure loss:
- Punctures: Nails, screws, or sharp debris can slowly leak air.
- Valve Stem Issues: Damaged or worn valve stems are common in heavy truck tyres.
- Temperature Changes: Colder weather reduces tyre pressure; heat increases it.
- Improper Installation: Over-tightened or misaligned rims can lead to slow leaks.
Being proactive and performing regular checks reduces the risk of sudden tyre failure.
Benefits of Maintaining Proper Pressure in Truck Tyre
Proper pressure in truck tyre offers multiple benefits:
- Fuel Efficiency: Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, causing higher fuel consumption.
- Safety: Correctly inflated tyres improve braking performance and handling.
- Tyre Longevity: Even pressure reduces uneven wear and prolongs tyre life.
- Cargo Protection: Proper pressure ensures that cargo remains stable and reduces the risk of damage due to tyre failure.
Best Practices for Truck Drivers
Here are some best practices for maintaining the correct pressure in truck tyre:
- Routine Checks: Before each trip or at least weekly.
- Adjust for Load: Refer to manufacturer charts for correct pressure based on the truck’s weight.
- Maintain Spare Tyres: Keep spare tyres inflated to the recommended pressure.
- Monitor Temperature Effects: Adjust pressure as needed for extreme weather.
- Use TPMS: For fleets or long-haul trucks, monitoring systems save time and reduce risk.
- Document Inspections: Keep records of pressure checks and maintenance for compliance and fleet management.
Tips for Light, Medium, and Heavy Trucks
- Light Trucks: Focus on weekly pressure checks and avoid overloading.
- Medium Trucks: Use TPMS or manual gauges frequently, especially on long trips.
- Heavy Trucks: Check pressure before departure, during breaks on long hauls, and monitor axle-specific loads carefully.
Conclusion
Maintaining the correct pressure in truck tyre is a critical part of truck maintenance. It ensures safety, improves fuel efficiency, prolongs tyre life, and protects cargo. Whether you drive a light truck, a medium-duty truck, or a heavy hauler, regular monitoring, proper adjustment, and awareness of tyre conditions are essential. Investing in a good tyre pressure gauge or a TPMS system can save money, reduce downtime, and prevent accidents.
For truck drivers, being proactive about tyre pressure is not optional — it’s a responsibility. Make pressure in truck tyre a part of your routine, and your vehicle, cargo, and your own safety will thank you.
