How Often Should You Replace Box Truck Tires?

No other part on a box truck takes a beating like the tires. While box trucks do not cruise the long highway miles of semis, they face wear and tear from daily use on freeways, in cities and even on rural streets. Usually, box truck tires in Ocala, FL last 100,000 miles or three to seven years, depending on usage. The following overview addresses which factors affect tire replacement and how to keep your tires lasting for the long term.

Wear and tear

Two factors affect tire lifespan: mileage and tire type. Mileage includes the number of miles box trucks drive in a year, as well as the type of miles. UPS trucks used on rural routes and gravel roads wear out tires more quickly than box trucks driving primarily on maintained highways.

Conditions matter, too. Snow and rain affect tire wear. Also, if a box truck mainly drives through construction sites, there is a higher chance that rocks, tools and nails will puncture tires and lead to replacement.

The type of tire also matters. Special trailer tires (STs) work best with fifth wheels and travel trailers. They last up to 40,000 miles before needing replacement. Also, tires that are not fitted right to a box truck or inappropriate for the conditions will not last as long as tires chosen for fit, high load capacities and local weather conditions.

Making them last

Tire condition is easy to maintain because you can see most things that go wrong with tires. When you notice anything different in appearance or handling, check the tires. There can be a leak, inflation problem or any other problem indicating a repair or replacement issue.

Besides noticing problems, you also need to take care of tires. Here are three tips on keeping box truck tires in Ocala, FL in good condition for as long as possible:

  • Keep inflated: Proper inflation preserves tires, but also supports fuel efficiency and handling. After a driving shift, allow the tires to cool. Weigh the truck fully loaded, and weigh axles and trailer axles separately. Compare axle weights with the manufacturer’s specifications to determine the correct pressure. Inflate tires to that pressure and maintain that level.
  • Watch wear: Tire wear is a natural consequence of driving. Check tires and make sure they wear evenly. If you notice tires on one axle wear out more quickly than on another, check alignment and load distribution. It could be that warehouses are not loading cargo correctly. If you wear through tires frequently, weigh the truck while it’s loaded and see if you are demanding that it haul more. You may need to upgrade to higher capacity tires.
  • Be observant: Inspect tires regularly, and consider making that a part of pre-trip and closing truck checks. Tires that regularly dip below 20 percent of their recommended pressure are officially flat and need replacement. Also, check valve caps, sidewalls, suspension and lug nuts, and report any irregularities.

J & M Trailer Repair offers a full inventory of box truck tires to keep your fleet efficient and safe. Contact us and schedule an appointment the next time you need tire replacement in Ocala, FL.