I. Introduction
A quiet revolution is underway in the dynamic world of commercial transportation. As the logistics industry shifts toward lightweight and efficient operations, an increasing number of fleet managers and truck operators are seeking ways to optimize vehicle performance. Developing a scientific truck tire replacement strategy has become key to enhancing competitiveness. One of the most significant and impactful upgrades in this field is the transition from traditional tube-type tires to modern tubeless (vacuum) tires.
II. Why Upgrade from Tube-Type to Tubeless truck Tires?
The shift from tube-type to tubeless tires represents a major advancement in commercial truck tire technology. For any fleet considering truck tire replacement, understanding the differences between tubeless tire vs tube tire is crucial. There are several advantages of tubeless truck tires:
- Enhanced Safety: Tubeless tires lose air slowly after punctures, allowing for controlled stops and reducing blowout risks.
- Greater Efficiency & Less Weight: Removing the inner tube reduces weight, lowers rolling resistance, and improves fuel economy—an important consideration when choosing the best truck tire.
- Easier Maintenance: Minor punctures can often be quickly repaired with an external plug, reducing vehicle downtime. Better heat dissipation also extends the service life of commercial truck tires.
- Improved Pressure Stability: The integrated liner provides superior air retention, ensuring consistent pressure for even wear and optimal performance.
III. Comprehensive Compatibility & Conversion Chart – From Tube-Type to Tubeless truck Tires
A truck tire replacement upgrade is not a simple one-to-one swap. It requires careful matching of tire sizes and, crucially, the use of correctly specified rims. The fundamental difference between tubeless tire vs tube tire is that tubeless tires must be mounted on specific tubeless-compatible rims (often designated with suffixes like ‘H’ or ‘V’) to ensure a perfect, airtight seal. The table below provides a detailed reference for converting common tube-type sizes to their tubeless equivalents, along with rim and application guidance, serving as a practical tool for planning your commercial truck tire replacement.
| Tube-Type Tire | Overall Diameter (mm) | Tubeless Tires | 80 Series tubeless tires | 75' Series Tubeless Tires | 70 Series Tubeless Tires | 65 Series Tubeless Tires | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6.50R16 | 750 | - | - | 205/75R17.5 | - | - | Light urban delivery trucks. Smooth roads. |
| 7.00R16 | 775 | - | - | 225/75R17.5; 215/75R17.5 | 225/70R17.5 | - | Short-haul urban/rural trucks. Minor uneven roads. |
| 7.50R16 | 805 | 8R17.5 | - | 235/75R17.5 | 245/70R17.5; 225/70R17.5 | - | Medium-duty trucks. General highways. |
| 8.25R16 | 855 | 9R17.5 | - | 245/75R17.5 | 265/70R17.5 | - | Medium/long-haul. Varied road conditions. |
| 9.00R16 | - | 10R17.5 | - | - | - | - | |
| 7.00R20 | - | 8R19.5 | - | - | - | - | |
| 7.50R20 | 935 | 8R22.5 | - | - | - | - | |
| 8.25R20 | 974 | 9R22.5 | - | - | - | - | |
| 9.00R20 | 1019 | 10R22.5 | - | - | - | - | Heavy-duty long-haul. High-load capability. |
| 10.00R20 | 1054 | 11R22.5; 11R24.5 | 275/80R22.5 | 295/75R22.5 | 315/70R22.5 | 385/65R22.5 | Dump trucks, mining. Excellentwear resistance) |
| 11.00R20 | 1095 | 12R22.5 | 296/80R22.5 | 315/75R22.5 | - | - | Large coaches & tractors. High-speed stability. |
| 12.00R20 | 1125 | 13R22.5 | 315/80R22.5 | - | - | - | Ultra-heavy transport. Maximum load capacity. |
IV. Critical Considerations for a Successful Upgrade
Consulting the conversion table is just the first step. A successful truck tire replacement upgrade requires careful planning and professional execution, especially when dealing with tubeless radial truck tires.
| Tube Tyre | → | Tubeless Tire | Dual-Tire Load Capacity | Overall Diameter | Section Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9.00R20-16 | → | 10R22.5-14 | 2650 kg → 2360 kg | 1019 mm → 1019 mm | 259 mm → 254 mm |
| 10.00R20-16 | → | 11R22.5-16 | 2630 kg → 2900 kg | 1055 mm → 1054 mm | 278 mm → 279 mm |
| 9.00R20-16 | → | 10R22.5-14 | 2650 kg → 2360 kg | 1019 mm → 1019 mm | 259 mm → 254 mm |
| 10.00R20-16 | → | 11R22.5-16 | 2630 kg → 2900 kg | 1055 mm → 1054 mm | 278 mm → 279 mm |
| 9.00R20-16 | → | 275/70R22.5-16 | 2650 kg → 3000 kg | 1055 mm → 1044 mm | 278 mm → 298 mm |
| 9.00R20-16 | → | 275/70R22.5-16 | 2650 kg → 3000 kg | 1055 mm → 1012 mm | 258 mm → 276 mm |
| 10.00R20-16 | → | 295/80R22.5-18 | 2650 kg → 3150 kg | 1055 mm → 1044 mm | 278 mm → 298 mm |
Professional Assessment and Installation is Non-Negotiable: This is a technical process. Always rely on a certified tire service center. Experienced technicians will evaluate your vehicle’s operating environment, routes, and load patterns to recommend the best truck tire. They will also ensure the new tubeless radial truck tires are correctly mounted on suitable rims and balanced, which is critical for safety and performance. Attempting a DIY conversion can lead to improper sealing, bead damage, or dangerous tire detachment.
Vehicle and Rim Compatibility Check: Not all vehicles are suitable for tubeless tires. Older truck models may have wheel rim designs or tire mounting structures that are incompatible. Forcing an upgrade on incompatible rims can result in air leaks and severe safety hazards. A professional will inspect your existing rims or help you source the correct tubeless-compatible ones.
Tire Selection Based on Axle Position: Tires perform different functions on different axles. For a standard tractor-trailer or rigid truck:
- Steer Axles: Require tires with excellent wet grip, handling responsiveness, safety and control.
- Drive Axles: Need tires with superior traction,and high load-bearing capacity.
- Trailer Axles: Benefit from tires focused on even wear, fuel efficiency, and good retreadability.
Professionals will select and install tires with tread patterns and compounds engineered for these specific roles, maximizing tire life and vehicle safety.
Conclusion
Transitioning from tube-type to tubeless tires is a strategic upgrade that aligns with the modern demands of safety, efficiency, and total cost of ownership in the trucking industry. While the benefits are clear—from reduced puncture risks to easier maintenance—the process demands expertise. Use the provided compatibility chart as a starting point for discussions with your tire service provider. By partnering with professionals for assessment, correct parts sourcing, and precise installation, you can ensure your fleet is equipped with the right “shoes” to run smoother, safer, and more profitably on every journey.
Ready to upgrade? Consult with a Forlander Tire specialist today to develop a customized tire conversion plan for your fleet. Forlander Tire, as a professional tire manufacturer, offers a comprehensive range of TBR, PCR, and OTR tires in various sizes and tread patterns to meet the demands of diverse operating conditions.
