Can a truck with dual tires continue driving if one is damaged?
2 Answers
A truck with dual tires cannot continue driving if one is damaged. Here are some precautions for replacing the tire: 1. Choose the appropriate tire: The specifications of the new tire must match the previous one and be identical to the other tire on the same axle, such as speed rating, load index, tread pattern, brand, size, etc., to ensure safe driving. 2. Replace the valve stem: When replacing the tire, the aging cycle of the new tire and the valve stem may differ. The valve stem might develop issues within the lifespan of the new tire, so it's best to replace the valve stem simultaneously when changing the tire. 3. Pay attention to installation direction and inflation: If using the original factory tire, follow the manufacturer's installation instructions. For non-original tires, the side with the production date usually faces outward. If it's a directional tire, align the arrow on the tire with the direction of vehicle movement. During inflation, you can fill the tire to the maximum allowed pressure and then reduce it to the manufacturer's recommended standard pressure.
I've seen plenty of things on the road. When a truck loses one of its dual tires, it might still limp along slowly for a short distance to a safe spot, but I really don't recommend it. Why? Because dual tires are designed to share the load. After losing one, the remaining tire has to bear all the pressure, which accelerates wear and overheating, and can even lead to a blowout within minutes. The steering wheel can also pull to one side, making it especially dangerous at high speeds—if you lose control and roll over, it's a disaster. I know a friend who insisted on driving five kilometers, only to ruin the other tire, costing over a thousand to replace. It would have been cheaper and easier to just change the spare on the spot. So remember: if you notice a flat, pull over immediately, turn on your hazard lights, and find a repair shop. Don't risk it for speed. Safety always comes first.