Truck tires are more than “where the rubber meets the road.” Understanding truck tire sizes, tire load ratings, why ply no longer matters, and more is important for today’s fleet managers.

Load index is another way of displaying a tire’s load-carrying capacity. The load index value for most truck tires will fall between 109 and 130 (2,271 pounds to 4,190 pounds, respectively).

For most standard cars and light trucks, you'll find tire load index ratings between 70 and 124. From there, the weight capacity can range from 739 to 3,527 pounds. In less typical cases you may ...

Consumer Reports deciphers the cryptic sidewall codes on a typical tire, explaining how to decode tire size, load index, maximum pressure, speed rating, and more.

Tire markings aren't random, they reveal crucial details about your car's capabilities. Find out what ZR means and why it ...

Such a chart highlights the varying relationship between pressure and a tire’s ability to carry weight. Dual ratings are slightly lower than for tires mounted singly to allow for the inevitable ...

This indicates a tire that’s intended for use on a light truck or SUV, which have heavier load ratings than passenger cars. Another possibility is “T”, which denotes a temporary or spare tire.

According to 49 CFR 571.120, “the sum of the maximum load ratings of the tires fitted to an axle shall be not less than the gross axle weight rating (GAWR) of the axle system as specified on the ...

Today's radial tires have replaced this term with a Load Range rating — one of many things written on your tires. Load Range E is equivalent to what the old 10-ply tires could handle.

Your tires can’t talk, but they have a lot to say. Not all tires are created equal, and most of the details that make the difference between a Bridgestone Blizzak and a Pirelli P Zero are ...

Also note load ratings will vary for tires that may be used on dual-wheel applications because of heat buildup, so a tire rated for 3042 lb as a single will rate only 2778 lb run as duals (and its ...