17.5 Tires on a Low Pro. How to get the most out of them

Discussion in 'Flatbed Trucking Forum' started by Hegemeister, Apr 3, 2017.

  1. Hegemeister

    Hegemeister Road Train Member

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    I'm purchasing a low pro step deck with 17.5" rims. I hear horror stories about the reliability of the small tires like blow outs and short wear life.

    I have some opportunities with freight that requires the extra height.

    What are some of the things I can do to keep cost and downtime to a minimum with this set up?

    THANKS!
     
    Logan76 Thanks this.
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  3. cnsper

    cnsper Road Train Member

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    Get the thickest tires you can buy and carry at least two spares. High speeds are not friendly to these tires
     
  4. KANSAS TRANSIT

    KANSAS TRANSIT Road Train Member

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    Buy good tires, and REALLY watch your tire pressures, I had really good luck with Continentals? Also be aware that certain 17.5 brake setups like to "cam over" if you get them worn down to far. Also CARRY A SPARE!!!
     
  5. Hegemeister

    Hegemeister Road Train Member

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    I run about 63 MPH. I'm thinking loaded weight is a factor.
     
  6. KANSAS TRANSIT

    KANSAS TRANSIT Road Train Member

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    Is there any way to get your freight positioned on a regular low step that has the wheel arches and runs the 255/70/22.5?
     
  7. Hegemeister

    Hegemeister Road Train Member

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    I understand they will wear faster due to the radius. But some people say they "pop" before they are worn.
    So good tires, 63mph should be OK?
     
  8. Hegemeister

    Hegemeister Road Train Member

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    No. I need a 3 foot deck across the whole bottom.
     
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  9. KANSAS TRANSIT

    KANSAS TRANSIT Road Train Member

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    We had a really goofy river wear pattern on ours that we could never get solved, but we were running a mini spread setup and Im sure that was some of it.
     
    Hegemeister Thanks this.
  10. truckdad

    truckdad Road Train Member

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    Proper inflation! All the time.
     
    Hegemeister Thanks this.
  11. Hegemeister

    Hegemeister Road Train Member

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    Yes. Inflation. Inflation is crazy. I'll set the cold pressure in the morning and start driving. The outside temperature some days will climb 20 + degrees and the tire pressure will climb 15psi.

    So. I guess then just set the psi in the morning, and keep the speed at or under 63 mph.
    Sounds like the increase in pressure caused by ambient and running heat can cause the tire to blow.
     
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