Selecting the right tires for your application
When selecting tires for your fleet, it is important to understand where a vehicle is going to be used most of the time, the application type and the performance attributes that are most important for your fleet - such as traction, fuel efficiency, long wear life and ride comfort.
Brian Cunningham, vice president of sales at GCR Tires & Service, suggests using the following questions to narrow down tire selection:
- What type of carrier are you?
- How many miles do you carry in a year?
- How many trucks/trailers do you own?
- What are the demographics of where you are traveling and at what season?
GCR Tires & Service (GCRTires.com), a division of Bridgestone Americas, operates one of the largest commercial tire and service networks in North America, with more than 200 store locations and 1,500 service vehicles.
When fleets select the incorrect tire for their application, the tire’s design and purpose are negated.
“For example, if a line-haul tire is selected for an urban environment, it will not hold up to the stop-and-go, high-turning, scrubbing and road hazards that are typical in that environment,” Cunningham says.
It’s important that fleets prioritize their tire needs based on the application requirements of their vehicle. GCR recommends that when purchasing a tire, fleet managers consider three key items:
- Ensure tires are the correct size and load range to meet the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
- Choose a tire with an appropriate speed capability for service conditions.
- Work with a trusted tire advisor to select the appropriate tire design for your business objectives and preferences.
Tire manufacturers like GCR also offer online programs to assist with selecting proper equipment through a series of questions or criteria.
Taking the time to ensure you are choosing the best tires for your fleet’s needs will help maximize your tire investment.
