Truck Tire Load Index Chart: A Detailed Guide

For those working in the transportation industry, especially with trucks, understanding vehicle specifications is crucial. Among these, the tire load index and the load index chart play a pivotal role in ensuring safety and operational efficiency. This article from My Dinh Truck experts will provide a comprehensive overview of the tire load index chart, helping you choose the most suitable tires for your transportation needs.

The load index, an indispensable specification on tires, indicates the maximum weight a single tire can bear. Typically, this index is represented by a number, and to know the corresponding weight the tire can handle, we need to refer to the tire load index chart. This chart is an essential tool, especially when you need to determine the total load capacity of the vehicle and select tires that meet transportation requirements.

What is Tire Load Index?

The tire load index is an international standard adhered to by tire manufacturers to ensure consistency and ease of reference. It usually appears right after the tire size symbol and before the maximum speed rating on the tire sidewall. The value of the load index typically ranges from 60 to 126 for passenger car tires and can be higher for truck and commercial vehicle tires.

To better understand the actual load-bearing capacity of a tire, we need to consult the tire load index chart. This chart converts the load index (e.g., 90, 100, 110, etc.) into a specific weight value, usually measured in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb).

Why is the Tire Load Index Chart Important?

Understanding and using the tire load index chart offers many practical benefits, especially in truck operation:

• Ensuring safety: Choosing tires with the appropriate load index helps the vehicle operate safely, preventing overloading that can lead to tire blowouts, loss of control, which is especially dangerous when the vehicle is carrying heavy loads or traveling on highways.
• Optimizing performance: Tires with the correct load index help the vehicle operate stably, minimize uneven tire wear, save fuel, and extend tire life.
• Complying with legal regulations: Overloading is a violation of the law and endangers traffic safety. Understanding the load index chart helps vehicle owners and drivers comply with load regulations, avoid fines, and ensure legal business operations.
• Choosing suitable tires: When replacing tires, referring to the tire load index chart helps you choose tires with technical specifications equivalent to or better than the original tires, ensuring stable and safe vehicle operation.

Detailed Tire Load Index Chart in Kilograms (kg) and Pounds (lb)

Below is a detailed tire load index chart converting load index to kilograms (kg) and pounds (lb). This chart covers a wide range of common load indices, making it easy for you to look up and compare:

Load index conversion chart from 51 to 250 for car tires
Load index conversion chart from 51 to 250 for car tires

Note: The conversion chart above applies to a single tire. To calculate the total load capacity for each axle, you need to multiply the corresponding weight value by the number of tires on that axle (usually 2 tires for a single axle and 4 tires for a dual axle).

Guide to Choosing the Right Truck Tires Based on the Load Index Chart

To choose the right truck tires, follow these steps:

1. Determine the axle load: Refer to the vehicle registration certificate or information from the manufacturer to find the maximum allowable load for each axle (front and rear axles).
2. Calculate the load per tire: Divide the axle load by the number of tires on that axle. For example, if the rear axle of a truck has a maximum load capacity of 6000kg and uses 4 tires, then each tire needs to bear at least 1500kg.
3. Consult the tire load index chart: Find the load index in the conversion chart that corresponds to or is greater than the weight calculated in step 2. In the example above, 1500kg corresponds to a load index of approximately 122. Therefore, you need to choose tires with a load index of 122 or higher.
4. Consider other factors: In addition to the load index, consider other factors such as:
   • Speed ​​Rating: Ensure the tire speed rating matches the maximum operating speed of the vehicle.
   • Tire Size: Choose the tire size that matches the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.
   • Terrain and Operating Conditions: Choose a tire tread pattern suitable for the terrain you frequently travel on (highway, mixed roads, off-road…).
   • Tire Brand and Quality: Prioritize reputable tire brands to ensure quality and durability.

Choosing the right truck tires, especially based on the tire load index chart, is crucial for ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effective operation. If you have any further questions or need more detailed advice, do not hesitate to contact My Dinh Truck – experts in trucks and truck tires for the best support.