The tires on your semi truck serve you well on every ride and through every maneuver. But there comes a time when your tires need to be replaced. Tire failure shouldn’t be taken lightly and could be deadly. An unexpected blowout could also lead to a loss of revenue and missed deadlines.
Fortunately, with a little know-how, semi-truck drivers in Decatur, IL, can spot the signs of worn tires and take action by arranging replacements through their local diesel mechanic shop. In this article, we’ll talk about those signs and the next steps you can take to keep your trusty truck legal, safe, and performing at its best.
Blisters and Bulges
The outer surface of your tires tells a story about their overall condition. The surface should be level and smooth. If your tires are showing bulges or blisters, it’s time to get these tires replaced as soon as possible. These problems only appear once the tire’s exterior has become weak and compromised. They can be caused by wear and tear but are usually the result of trauma, such as hitting a speed bump, curb, or deep pothole. Ignoring these problems could put you at risk of a blowout, and that’s no picnic when you’re trucking down the freeway at 60 mph.
Tread Depth
The deep grooves etched into your tires are essential for keeping you on the road and maintaining grip as you move from lane to lane, take corners, and tackle the highway on a rainy day. At Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, we regularly see semi-truck tires way below the recommended depth — around 1.6 millimeters. If you regularly drive on slippery or wet surfaces, you’ll probably need to change your tires before you hit this depth.
Wear Indicator Bar
Most new tires today are equipped with a tread wear indicator. As your wheels experience wear and tear, the indicator will become visible. Once you can see one or two bars on the indicator, it’s time to take your truck to your semi truck maintenance shop. If you live in Decatur, IL, the best place to go for superior service is Decatur Trailer Sales & Service. You won’t be disappointed when you experience top-quality results from experts prioritizing your safety.
Vibration
When you’re driving a hulking semi-truck over a range of different road surfaces and with heavy loads, some vibration is normal. However, if you’re experiencing vibration that is excessive and makes the drive uncomfortable, it could be your tires that are to blame. Unbalanced tires can often cause vibration that’s felt through the steering wheel. Talk to a professional if the problem continues. Proactive action is always the best action where tires are concerned.
First For Semi Truck Maintenance in Decatur
At Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc., we specialize in commercial truck repair services. With over 40 years of experience, you can trust us to replace your tires to the highest standard and prepare your rig for the road. From replacing tires to balancing your wheels, we’ll tailor our services to meet the specific needs of your semi. It’s why we’re the #1 choice for many semi-drivers in Decatur, IL, today.
Contact the team at Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc. today at 217.422.7197 or contact us through our website. We’re the best choice when you need professional service.
