16.5 tires

Types of 16.5 tires

When it comes to the 16.5-inch tire size, there are a variety of options available to meet different needs. 16.5 tires are used less frequently than 16-inch and 17-inch tire sizes, but they are still available for specific uses. They are most commonly seen on commercial trucks, buses, and heavy-duty vehicles that require specialized tires for optimal performance.

According to the 16.5 tire size chart, 16.5 tires come in different aspect ratios, including 55, 60, 65, and 70. The aspect ratio is the percentage of the tire's section height to its section width. For example, a tire with an aspect ratio of 60 has a height that is 60% of its width. This means that 16.5 60 tires are shorter and provide better stability at higher speeds, while 55 16.5 tires are taller and offer a larger footprint for better traction off-road.

When it comes to 16.5 tire types, there are two main options:

• Radial tires: These are the most common type of 16.5 tires. They have layers of steel cords that run perpendicular to the center of the tread. This design allows for better stability, fuel efficiency, and even tread wear. These tires are ideal for long-distance trucking on highways.
• Bias-ply tires: These tires are less common nowadays but are still used for specific applications. They have layers of cotton or nylon cords that run diagonally across the tire. This design makes bias-ply tires more flexible and allows them to carry heavy loads. As a result, they are often used in off-road trucking and construction settings.

Specification & Maintenance of 16.5 Tires

Here are the specifications and maintenance requirements for the 16.5 truck tires.

Specification of 16.5 Tires

• Size

  Generally, the tire size is indicated on the sidewall. For example, 16.5 tires with a size notation of 255/70R16.5 are explained as follows.

  The first number (255) is the width of the tire in millimeters. The maximum width is 255 mm. The number indicates the width when the tire is mounted on the specified rim and inflated to the specified pressure. The number may also be affected slightly by the difference in design among the manufacturers.

  The number 70 is the aspect ratio. It indicates the height of the sidewall and is given in percentage. The height of the sidewall is 70% of the width of the tire (255 mm). The value is expressed in millimeters and is calculated as 255 mm × 70% = 178.5 mm.

  The letter R indicates that the tire is radially constructed. The number 16.5 indicates the diameter of the rim in inches on which the tire must be mounted. In this case, the rim diameter is 16.5 inches (419.1 mm).

• Tread Patterns and Materials

  The tread pattern and material of 16.5 trailer tires are designed for various driving conditions and needs. Patterns include symmetrical, asymmetrical, directional, and non-directional designs. The tread material is made of durable rubber compounds to improve wear resistance and grip performance.

• Tread Depth

  Tread depth is an important parameter that affects tire traction and durability. Standard 16.5 tires have tread depths ranging from 10 to 12 mm, while some high-performance tires may have deeper tread depths to improve grip and stability.

• Load Index and Speed Rating

  The load index of 16.5-inch tires is usually between 100 and 120, meaning they can carry loads of 800 to 1200 kg per tire. The speed rating is typically between Q and R, indicating that the tires are suitable for speeds of up to 160–180 km/h.

Maintenance of 16.5 Tires

• Regular Inspection

  Truck owners should regularly inspect the tires for visible damage, such as cuts, punctures, cracks, and foreign objects. At the same time, they should also pay attention to the tread depth and uneven wear conditions and take corresponding measures in time.

• Tire Pressure

  Maintain the appropriate tire pressure according to the manufacturer's requirements. Use a reliable pressure gauge to check the tire pressure regularly and adjust it if necessary. Improper tire pressure can cause problems such as uneven tire wear, poor fuel economy, and dangerous driving stability.

• Tire Rotation

  To ensure the uniform wear of all tires, it is necessary to rotate the tires regularly according to the recommended tire rotation method and mileage. The common methods of tire rotation include front-to-rear rotation, diagonal rotation, and four-wheel rotation.

• Tire Balance and Alignment

  After mounting new tires or replacing tires, it is necessary to check the tire balance and perform wheel alignment adjustments if necessary. Proper tire balancing can reduce tire vibration and uneven wear, while wheel alignment can ensure the correct installation of the tires on the vehicle.

• Storage of Spare Tires

  If there are spare tires, they should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight and harmful chemicals. At the same time, the spare tire should be checked regularly to ensure that it is in good condition and ready for use at any time.

How to Choose 16.5 Tires

Choosing the right 16.5 tire for a particular application requires careful consideration of various factors. Here are some of the most important ones:

• Driving Needs and Habits

  Business retailers should consider the driving needs and habits of their customers. Do they drive on highways, off-road, or in urban settings? Different 16.5 tire treads and compounds offer better performance in specific areas.

• Load Capacity and Tire Size

  The 16.5 tire size affects its performance and compatibility with the vehicle. A larger tire may offer better traction but could affect the speedometer accuracy and clearance. Additionally, the tire should support the vehicle's load capacity, which is crucial for commercial vehicles.

• Weather Conditions

  In regions with severe winters, buyers may require all-season 16.5 tires or specific winter tires for better snow and ice traction. Conversely, buyers in hotter areas might prioritize heat resistance and dry traction in their tire selection.

• Budget

  For most buyers, the price of the tire is a critical selection factor. While larger tires and premium brands may be more expensive, they often provide better longevity and performance. Business retailers should advise customers to consider long-term value rather than the initial price.

• Tread Design

  The tread design affects the tire's traction, noise level, and appearance. Tires with more aggressive treads offer better off-road capabilities but may produce more noise on highways. Balancing the tread design with the specific use requirements is essential.

• Brand Reputation

  Business retailers should partner with 16.5 tire wholesalers known for their quality and reliability. Reading online reviews and seeking recommendations can help find trustworthy suppliers with consistent product performance.

How to DIY and Replace 16.5 tires

To ensure safety and proper functionality, it's important to follow the steps properly when replacing the 16.5 trailer tires.

• Preparation:

  Read the owner's manual for instructions on changing the specific vehicle's tires. Gather the necessary tools: new 16.5-inch tires, jack, jack stands, lug wrench, torque wrench, and wheel chocks. Find a safe, flat location away from traffic to change the tire. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks around the wheels remaining on the ground for added safety.

• Loosen the lug nuts:

  Use the lug wrench to break loose the lug nuts on the tire to be replaced. Turn the wrench counterclockwise to loosen. Do this while the vehicle is still on the ground to prevent it from moving.

• Lift the vehicle:

  Place the jack under the vehicle's designated jacking point and lift the car until it meets the manufacturer's instructions. Once the vehicle is lifted, use jack stands to support it and provide extra stability.

• Remove the tire:

  Completely remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the old tire. Keep the lug nuts in a clean, dry place so they don't get lost.

• Install the new tire:

  Align the new tire's holes with the wheel studs and gently push it onto the hub. Hand-tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.

• Lower the vehicle:

  Remove the jack stands and carefully lower the vehicle using the jack. Once the vehicle is back on the ground, remove wheel chocks, and firmly tighten the lug nuts with a torque wrench. Follow the pattern in the owner's manual to ensure even distribution of the tire pressure.

Q and A

Q1: Can 16.5 tires be used on any vehicle?

A1: No, 16.5 tires are not compatible with every vehicle. They are primarily designed for heavy-duty trucks and some specific off-road and commercial vehicles. It's essential to check the vehicle's specifications before considering these tire sizes.

Q2: What is the load rating for 16.5 tires?

A2: The load rating can vary based on the specific 16.5 tire size and construction. However, these tires generally have a high load rating to support heavy trucks' and commercial vehicles' weights and loads. For precise information, consult the tire's technical specifications.

Q3: How often should 16.5 tires be rotated?

A3: Generally, 16.5 tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles (or every other oil change) to ensure even wear. However, this may vary based on driving habits, road conditions, and specific vehicle requirements. Check the vehicle's manual for recommendations.

Q4: Are 16.5 tires suitable for off-road use?

A4: Yes, 16.5 tires are appropriate for off-road use, especially those designed explicitly for off-road conditions. These tires provide adequate traction and durability on rough roads, mud, sand, and other off-road environments. Selecting the right type of 16.5 tire based on the specific off-road conditions is essential.