Last Updated on September 27, 2023
Choosing the Right Dually Tires for Enhanced Load-Carrying Capacity
Carrying motorcycles in your truck bed? Pulling a boat trailer or hauling a 5th-wheeler?
If the job is heavy enough, you might find yourself driving a light truck with “dually” tires, so-called because there are dual tires on each side of the rear axle to beef up the carrying capacity of the vehicle.
When you purchase dual light truck tires, buying seven identical tires, 6 for the axles and one more for a spare, is recommended. That way, when you rotate the tires, the wear on each tire will stay equal. Different tire brands and models often have slight differences in their actual dimensions, even though they are marked as the same size.
What is Dually Tire?
Dual tires, short for “dual tires,” are a type of tire configuration commonly used on trucks and vehicles designed to carry heavy loads. Instead of a single tire on each side of the rear axle, dual setups have two tires on each side, making four rear tires.
This configuration increases the vehicle’s load-carrying capacity and stability, making it suitable for towing, hauling, and commercial use. Dual tires are characterized by their unique appearance, with two tires closely spaced together on each side of the rear axle.
Exploring the Advantages of Dually Tires
Dually tires, as the name suggests, involve having two tires on each side of the rear axle instead of the usual single tire. This configuration effectively doubles the tire capacity on the rear axle, making it ideal for handling heavier loads.
If one of your dual tires is a little taller because it’s a different brand, it can carry more weight and wear faster.
In addition to the macho look, dual tires have some advantages.
- Increased Load Capacity: Dually tires provide a significant boost in load-carrying capacity. This makes them perfect for businesses transporting heavy equipment, construction materials, or towing large trailers.
- Enhanced Stability: With two tires on each side, dually setups offer improved stability, especially when carrying uneven or bulky loads. This stability contributes to better handling and safety on the road.
- Reduced Wear and Tear: Dually tires distribute the weight more evenly, resulting in reduced wear on individual tires. This means they tend to last longer and require less frequent replacement.
- Enhanced Traction: The extra rubber on the road means better traction, particularly in challenging road conditions like rain, snow, or mud.
- Improved Control: Dually tires offer better control and handling, reducing the risk of swaying or fishtailing, especially when towing heavy trailers.
The disadvantages of Dually Tires
Dually tires, with their added load-bearing capacity, are popular among light truck owners. However, like anything else, they come with their disadvantages. In this section, we’ll uncover the downsides of using dually tires so that you can make an informed decision when choosing the right tires for your vehicle.
Let’s explore the drawbacks of dually tires.
- Sometimes, the dual tire setup means you cannot install snow chains.
- Dual-tire vehicles are more comprehensive than other trucks, making it more difficult to find a parking spot.
- Dual tires cannot be up-sized.
Note: Tire load capacities can change depending on whether that tire is mounted as a traditional single tire or as part of a dual-tire setup. In many cases, the maximum load capacity is calculated a bit lower for each dual tire. Please check the double tire load capacity when calculating your load’s weight.
Conclusion
Dual tires are a boon for light trucks that regularly carry substantial loads. Their increased load capacity, stability, and improved traction make them an invaluable asset for businesses and individuals who need to do the job efficiently and safely.
If your light truck carries a more significant load or frequently tows heavy trailers, dually tires might be the upgrade you’ve been looking for. Explore the world of dual tires and experience the enhanced performance they bring to your truck.
FAQs
What is the purpose of dual tires?
The purpose of dual tires is to increase a vehicle’s load-carrying capacity and stability. They are commonly used on trucks that handle heavier loads or tow large trailers, providing better weight distribution and improved traction.
Do dually trucks need special tires?
Dual trucks typically require specialized dual tires to handle the increased load and provide stability. These tires are specifically engineered to meet the demands of heavy-duty applications.
What is the load rating of a light truck tire?
The load rating of a light truck tire varies depending on the specific tire model and size. Light truck tires usually have load ratings ranging from C (6-ply) to E (10-ply) and beyond, each rating indicating a different load-carrying capacity.
What is the highest load range tire?
The highest load range tire is typically Load Range F or 12-ply tires. These tires have a high load-carrying capacity and are often used on heavy-duty trucks and commercial vehicles.
