A semi truck is the common term used to refer to a large, heavy-duty truck used for transporting goods and materials. The size and weight of a semi truck require it to have more tires than most other vehicles.
In fact, a semi truck can have up to 18 tires – 10 on the drive axle, four on the trailer axle, and four on the steering axle.
The drive axle is the axle that provides power from the engine to move the vehicle forward. It typically contains two tires per side which are connected to each other through a differential. This differential allows for different amounts of torque to be applied through each wheel, allowing for greater maneuverability and stability when cornering.
The trailer axles are responsible for carrying the majority of the load from the trailer. They typically contain two tires per side which are connected together through a suspension system such as an air-ride system or linked suspension. This allows for greater stability and maneuverability when turning.
The steering axle is located in front of the drive axle and contains two tires per side that are connected together through a steering linkage system. This allows for better control when turning or navigating tight spaces.
All in all, a semi truck has up to 18 tires – 10 on the drive axle, four on the trailer axle, and four on the steering axle – making it one of the most heavily-tired vehicles in operation today. The large number of tires helps provide stability, traction, and maneuverability while being able to carry heavier loads than most other vehicles.
In conclusion, a semi truck requires up to 18 tires in order for it to safely transport goods over long distances with its heavy load capacity. The combination of these components helps ensure that semi trucks remain one of today’s most reliable means of transportation.
