Pressure Systems International (PSI) has released its first Commercial Fleet Tire Digest for 2018. This month’s issue addresses how to inspect tires to identify maintenance issues.
PSI states training drivers and technicians are a worthwhile investment because it can save “significant dollars over the long term.” When it comes to an inspection, the most important issue is proper inflation. According to the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) and Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC), a tire is considered flat when the measured air pressure is 20 percent below target specification. PSI writes when a tire is found to be flat under these conditions, it should be removed from service and thoroughly inspected before being filled and put back on an asset.
Additionally, PSI states drivers and technicians also should “inspect and check tires for any signs of irregular wear such as depressed wear, cupping and fast shoulder wear will help identify the root cause. Running your fingers across the tread surface is a great way to feel for any signs of uneven wear. It may be caused by running the tire underinflated, having worn suspension components or due to vehicle alignment issues. It could even be that the specific tire make and model is not the best choice for your specific vocation.
“It is also possible to have a tractor in perfect alignment while the trailer is misaligned. This could lead to irregular wear developing on both steer and drive tires because the trailer forces the tractor to dogleg left or right, which leads to tread scrubbing.”
To read the entirety of this month’s issue, please CLICK HERE.
