What are LTR tyres?
1. LTR tyres explained
LTR-metric (Light Truck Radial ) tyres are specifically engineered to work on vans or commercial vehicles, full size SUVs and Vans. Including also 1/2 ton, 3/4 ton and 1 ton load capacity.
An LT tyre is basically a reinforced tyre with extra steel belt, thicker, stiffer sidewalls and a deeper tread. They are meant to perform better while hauling, working and driving on non paved roads.
LT tyres are available in a variety of ply levels that are typically Load Range C (6 ply), D (8 ply), or E (10 ply). Commercial truck-bus tyres are usually on Load Range F (12 ply)-G (14 ply).
Comparing to a passenger (P-metric) tyre who will mostly be in a B (4 ply) or C (6 ply).
2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of LT tyres
The stiffer sidewalls provide more stability while hauling loads or driving off road. LT tyres also have extra material in the sidewall and under the tread that protects the tyre from damage.
In the other hand, LT tyres won't ride as smooth, be as fuel efficient or last longer than a regular P-metric (Passenger)tyre.
3. In which case should I use an LT tyre?
If your truck came equipped from the factory with p-metric tyres and you rarely go off paved roads and/or rarely pull or haul loads, you can continue with a P-metric (Passenger) tyre. They will ride smoother, last longer, and be more fuel efficient than a LT rated tyre in the same size.
In the other hand, if your truck, full size SUV or Van came from the factory rated for LT tyres, it is best to replace the tyres with LT tyres. P-metric(passenger) to LT (light truck) is acceptable, but never replace original LT tyres with P-metric tyres due to them having lower load capacity ratings at maximum air pressure.
4. What is the difference between Ply rating and Load rating?
They are terms used from a different era in the tyre history, but they mean the same thing. Ply rating is referred to a given letter (C to G) where, back then, they were using to say how many layers of compressed cotton fabric there were in the LT tyre.
In today's modern technology, tyre plies aren't made of cotton anymore but with other compounds and materials that are much stronger and the number of plies isn't the same as back then.
We currently use the load rating to find the right tyre. If you see ply rating and load rating on a chart, they both represent the tyre's maximum load carrying capacity at maximum allowable air pressure.
5. Can I choose a different type of tyre on my vehicle?
Regardless of whether you’re changing tyre sizes or want to switch the type of tyre you’re using, it’s essential to ensure the load rating listed on the new tyre’s sidewall is either equal to, or greater than, the load rating of the tyre you’re replacing.
ex: a 275/65 R18 *123S* can be replaced by the same 123 load rating or by a 275/70 R18 *125R* as the load rating would be greater than what is recommended by the manufacturer.