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Category: Tires

Tires
August 11, 2022

Why Do Semi Truck Tires Explode?

For many truck drivers, truck tire explosions are a major concern on the road due to how dangerous they can be to the driver and other motorists. But have you ever wondered why semi truck tires explode in the first place? When you understand the cause, you can better protect yourself while on the road and perhaps even save someone else’s life in the process. Here’s what you need to know about semi truck tire explosions and how to prevent them from happening.

Comparing Semi Truck Tires

Steer Tires

Steer tires are the front two tires of a semi truck that do the most work when it comes to driving. They steer, brake, and  accelerate. When a semi truck stops, the full weight of the cargo that is being transported will go into these tires, which results in them experiencing the most wear and tear. For this reason, they require the most maintenance and attention. It is important for the driver to check them often and inflate them properly to prevent explosions or other problems.

Drive Tires

The function of the drive tires on a semi truck is to help keep the vehicle moving forward. The drive tires also allow the driver to steer and maneuver along the road. These tires can be made of steel, polyester, nylon, or polyurethane. Steel-belted radials are by far the most common type of tire used on semi trucks, providing better traction than many other types of tire. Drive tire blowouts can happen when all four drive tires get worn out at about the same time and all their treads have been worn down.

There are two different types of drive tires that can be found on a semi truck: radial and bias ply tires. The type of tire depends on how much stress it needs to endure and how heavy it is; bias-ply tyres are made for light loads, while radial-ply tyres are made for heavy loads and high speeds. Radial-plys provide better traction because they can withstand large vertical forces whereas bias-plys slip on hard surfaces.

Drive tire manufacturers recommend checking drive tire pressure every 30 days; however, this can vary depending on how frequently the driver uses the truck’s brakes.

Trailer Tires

Trailer tires are designed for stability and load distribution when driving on-road or off-road in a trailer configuration. The rear trailer tires have the most traction our of all tires in a semi truck. They are typically equipped with higher ply ratings to prevent excessive tire wear, but also to distribute weight across more of the tire tread. Trailer tires can be heavier than drive tires due to their size, therefore they require more robust materials. More durable compounds may include: nylon, steel cord, polyester cords, aramid cords and canvas fabric reinforcing belts.

Semi Truck Tires Explode
Semi Truck Tires Explode

What Causes Semi Truck Tires to Explode?

There are several causes of truck tire explosions. Causes include tread separation and sudden loss of pressure. More than 75% of semi-truck tire explosions happen during the drive. The most common reason for this is low tire pressure caused by a flat, puncture, or under-inflation. The lower the air pressure in the tires, the more likely they are to fail because there is less rubber contact with the ground and less resiliency in the sidewalls. This type of failure may be initiated by conditions on the surface such as pot holes or a surface irregularity such as rocks that catch on a tread groove when traveling at high speeds over them.

Tire Tread Seperation

The steel belts that make up the tread of the drive tires have metal fasteners with hooks on them. These hooks are for connecting two steel belts together. They are important to prevent the belts from popping apart when traveling over a speed bump, especially at higher speeds. But sometimes, these hooks get worn out and cannot keep the metal plates secured together. This results in when you go over a high-impact event (such as driving off road or hitting a pothole), the tension from the belt loosens up and pops back into place, making it even looser. When this happens on both front tires, it’s called traction loss and can result in reduced control of your vehicle when turning or braking because there is less contact with the road surface.

Loss of Tire Pressure

There are many reasons that a semi truck tire could lose pressure. One potential cause of low air in a semi truck tire is faulty valve stem, which could be caused by debris or rust. Likewise, tires can also lose air due to punctures, if the tube has already ruptured and split. Flat spots on the surface of the tire can also lead to improper inflation; all of these situations should be addressed with immediate repair from a professional. To maintain proper balance between tire pressures and to ensure reliability, heavy trucks must stop periodically for air checks and rotations (e.g., every 400 miles).

Semi Truck Tires Explode

What To Do If Your Semi Truck Tire Explodes While You Are Driving

You should not change lanes or stop quickly if your tire is about to burst. Slowly reduce your speed and then pull over to the shoulder on the right side of the road. The reason for this is that if you suddenly change lanes or stop quickly, your wheel can lock up and cause even more damage to your tire.
 
Pulling over on the right side will give you more room, making it easier for a tow truck or another driver with a car with a flat tire in front of them to pull up next to you without risking damaging other vehicles on the road. It also reduces risk of getting rear-ended by another vehicle while waiting on roadside assistance.

Need Semi Truck Tire Service? Call (443) 790-8887 Today!

If you’re in need of semi truck tire service or roadside assistance, look no further than A1 Emergency Roadside Service. We can come to your location and perform repairs quickly and efficiently. Our fleet is ready for service 24 hours a day and we offer a wide range of repairs from bodywork to exhaust systems. Contact us today for more information.

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Tires
July 26, 2022

Tire Tread Depth For Semi Trucks: How Much Is Enough?

The tires on your semi truck are the only thing between you and the road, and in some cases, between you and disaster. Semi truck tires that are too worn down will be more prone to blowouts, and it’s important to have an idea of how much tread depth to keep on your tires so you don’t find yourself in any dangerous situations on the road. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about tire tread depth for semi trucks so you can have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your tires are safe and legal.

Why Tread Depth Matters

The depth of the tread on your tires is important for a number of reasons. First, it affects your traction. The deeper the tread, the better grip your tires will have on the road, which is especially important in inclement weather. Second, tire tread depth affects your fuel economy. Deeper treads provide less rolling resistance, which means your engine doesn’t have to work as hard (and use as much fuel) to move your vehicle down the road. Finally, tire tread depth is a safety issue. When treads are too shallow, they can’t effectively displace water, which can lead to hydroplaning and accidents. That’s why it’s important to know how much tread depth is enough for your semi truck tires.

Tire Tread Depth For Semi Trucks
Tire Tread Depth For Semi Trucks

Average Tread Depth Numbers

Most passenger vehicles have a minimum tire tread depth of around 2/32”.  The average car or light truck weighs around 4,000 pounds, so they don’t need as much grip as a semi truck.  A fully loaded semi truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and needs a tire tread depth of no less than 4/32” on steer tires and 2/32” on all other tires. That’s a big difference and it’s important to keep in mind when shopping for new tires.

What Do The Numbers On The Sidewall Mean?

The numbers on the sidewall of a tire are more than just a marketing gimmick – they can tell you a lot about the tire. The tread depth is one of the most important numbers, as it tells you how much tread is left on the tire. The industry standard for minimum tread depth is 2/32” on standard vehicles. But for semi trucks a minimum tread depth of 4/32” on steer tires and 2/32” on all other tires. This extra depth is necessary to help grip the road and keep the truck from slipping, especially in wet or icy conditions.

When To Replace Semi Truck Tires

It’s important to know when to replace your tires. If you wait too long, you could be putting yourself and others at risk on the road. Here are a few things to look for to know when it’s time for new tires:

  • If the tread is worn down to the point where the grooves are no longer visible, it’s time for new tires.
  • If you can see metal or cord poking through the tread, that means the tire has been severely worn or damaged and needs to be replaced immediately.
  • If cracks or splits appear in the sidewall of the tire, it’s also time for a new one.
  • If you are running recap tires on your drive or trailer tires and see tread separation it’s time for new tires.
  • Another way to tell if it’s time for new tires is by checking the tread depth with a penny.
Tire Tread Depth For Semi Trucks

Deep Vs Shallow Tire Tread

Depending on the terrain your truck will be driving on, you’ll want to adjust your tread depth accordingly. For example, if you’re driving mostly on highways, you can get away with shallower treads. But if you’re driving off-road or in snow, you’ll want deeper treads for better traction. The rule of thumb is that the deeper the tread, the better the traction. But there’s a tradeoff: deeper treads will wear out faster than shallow treads because the rubber is softer on deeper treads for better traction. So it’s important to strike a balance based on your needs.

Need Semi Truck Tire Repair or Replacement? Call (443) 790-8887 Today!

If you’re in need of tire service or roadside assistance, look no further than A1 Emergency Roadside Service. We can come to your location and perform repairs quickly and efficiently. Our fleet is ready for service 24 hours a day and we offer a wide range of repairs from bodywork to exhaust systems. Contact us today for more information.

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Tires
July 18, 2022

Get Back on the Road Fast with Mobile Semi Truck Tire Repair

A flat tire can be a nightmare for any truck driver or passenger, especially if it happens while you’re in the middle of nowhere. Fortunately, the mobile semi truck tire repair industry has boomed in recent years, and you can now find professionals with the right equipment to fix your vehicle no matter where you are. Learn more about how this can help you get back on the road fast in this quick guide to mobile semi truck tire repair services.

Getting Roadside Assistance

When you have a blowout or other tire emergency, time is of the essence. You need to get back on the road as quickly as possible to avoid losing time and money. That’s where mobile semi truck tire repair comes in. We’ll come to you, no matter where you are, and fix your tire so you can get back on your way. We’re fast, affordable, and convenient, so you can get back to business as usual in no time.

Dangers Of Driving With A Flat Tire

Driving with flat tires is dangerous for a number of reasons. First, it can damage your rims and tires. Second, it can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Third, it can lead to a blowout, which can be very dangerous. Fourth, it can cause you to get stranded on the side of the road. Fifth, it can increase your risk of getting into an accident or cause damage to others. Sixth, it can cause your fuel efficiency to suffer. Finally, it can be very expensive to repair or replace damaged tires.

Mobile Semi Truck Tire Repair
Mobile Semi Truck Tire Repair

What Does A Mobile Semi Truck Tire Repair Company Do?

If you have a blowout or a flat tire, the first thing you’ll want to do is get to a safe location. Once you’re off the road, give us a call and we’ll come to you. We’ll repair or replace your tire so you can get back on the road fast. In addition to fixing flats, we also offer other services such as tire rotation and alignment. We can even help if you’ve lost a load and need emergency roadside assistance. Whatever your needs, we’re here to help get you back on the road safely and quickly.

Maintain Your Tires Regularly

Tires are essential to the safety of any vehicle, but they’re especially important for semi trucks. These massive vehicles travel long distances and carry heavy loads, so their tires need to be in top condition at all times. That’s why it’s important to have a mobile tire repair service that can come to you, wherever you are. With our service, you can get back on the road fast, without having to worry about your tires.

What Happens If You Don't Maintain Your Tires

If you don’t take care of your tires, you’re putting yourself and others at risk. Tires are what keep your truck moving, and if they’re not in good condition, it can lead to a blowout. A blowout can cause you to lose control of your vehicle, and that could lead to an accident. Not only is it a safety hazard, but it’s also expensive to replace tires. So make sure you take care of them!

Signs Your Tires Need To Be Repaired

  • Your tread is wearing thin.
  • You’re starting to feel every bump in the road.
  • Your fuel efficiency has decreased.
  • You’ve been in a few more accidents than usual.
  • Your tires are showing signs of wear and tear or tread separation.

Need Mobile Semi Truck Tire Repair? Call (443) 790-8887 Today!

If you’re in need of tire service or roadside assistance, look no further than A1 Emergency Roadside Service. We can come to your location and perform repairs quickly and efficiently. Our fleet is ready for service 24 hours a day and we offer a wide range of repairs from bodywork to exhaust systems. Contact us today for more information.

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Tires
July 10, 2022

Truck Tire Blowout: How to Avoid a Costly and Dangerous Accident

For every truck driver, the possibility of experiencing a blowout while on the road is very real and potentially life-threatening. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, blowouts are responsible for 40% of all fatal highway accidents involving trucks. This article will help you identify what causes truck tire blowouts, how to avoid them, and how to handle them if you do experience one.

What’s Causes a Blowout?

Truck tire blowouts are caused by a variety of factors, including overloading, underinflation, speed, road conditions, and improper maintenance. Overloading puts too much stress on the tires, causing them to heat up and eventually fail. Underinflation makes the tires more susceptible to punctures and increases the risk of a blowout. Speed increases the centrifugal force on the tires, making them more likely to fail. Road conditions like potholes and bad road conditions can wreak havoc  on your tires. Improper maintenance can lead to tread separation or other problems that can cause a blowout.

Truck Tire Blowouts Are More Common In The Summer

Truck tire blowouts are more common in the summer than any other season. The heat causes the air inside the tires to expand, which puts extra pressure on the tires. This can cause the tread to separate from the tire, leading to a blowout. You should always check your tires for signs of damage before heading out on the road. Some of which include bulges, leaks, soft spots or bubbles in the rubber, cracks along the sidewall of the tire, and excessive wear. If you notice any damage, contact a professional right away to prevent an accident that could result in serious injury or death.

Truck Tire Blowout
Truck Tire Blowout

Check Your Tires Atleast Once Per Month

Truck tire blowouts are a costly and dangerous accident that can be easily avoided by regularly checking your tires. At a minimum, you should check your tires at least once a week. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you avoid a blowout:

  • First, inspect the tread depth of your tires. If the tread is worn down, it’s time for new tires.
  • Second, check the air pressure in all of your tires. The correct air pressure will be listed on the placard inside your truck’s door frame.
  • Third, look for any cracks or bulges in the sidewalls of your tires. These are signs that the tire is damaged and needs to be replaced.

Make Sure You Are Using the Right Tires For Your Truck

If you have the wrong tires or load range on your semi truck, you could experience a blowout. This is when the tire explodes due to too much pressure. A blowout can be dangerous because it can cause the truck to lose control, and it can also be expensive because you’ll have to replace the tire and repair any damage from the blow out. You should always check the date of manufacture printed on the sidewall of the tire before purchasing new ones for your rig. If this date is over five years old, then those tires are at risk for exploding or having a major blowout during use. There are also aftermarket companies that will offer cheaper prices for quality replacement tires if you’re willing to wait a few days for delivery.

Carry Emergency Supplies In Case Of A Tire Blowout

Truck drivers should always carry emergency supplies in case of a tire blowout. These supplies can include a spare tire, jack, and lug wrench. It’s also a good idea to have a first-aid kit, water, and snacks on hand in case you’re stranded on the side of the road. By being prepared, you can avoid a costly and dangerous accident.

Truck Tire Blowout

Follow All Driving Rules Carefully

Every year, there are countless accidents caused by truck tire blowouts. Some of these accidents are fatal, and many more result in costly property damage. To avoid becoming a statistic, it’s important to follow all driving rules carefully. This means obeying the speed limit, not tailgating, and being extra cautious in inclement weather. It also means regularly maintaining your truck and its tires according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Truck Tire Blowout Warning Signs

Truck tire blowouts are often preventable as long as warning signs are not ignored. If you see any warning signs, it’s important to take action immediately. Here are seven signs that your truck’s tires might be about to blow:

  • Uneven wear on the treads
  • Cracks or cuts in the sidewalls
  • Bulges or blisters on the surface of the tire
  • Excessive vibration while driving
  • A nail or other object lodged in the tread
  • Low tire pressure
  • Overheated tires

Need Help Repairing or Replacing A Blown Tire? Call (443) 790-8887 Today!

If you’re in need tire repair, tire replacement, or roadside assistance, look no further than A1 Emergency Roadside Service. We can come to your location and perform repairs quickly and efficiently. Our fleet is ready for service 24 hours a day and we offer a wide range of repairs from bodywork to exhaust systems. Contact us today for more information.

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