Wheel Loading
Wheels are stamped with a maximum load and cold
inflation rating. Be sure you do not exceed these limits.
Dual Tire Operation
When the vehicle is new, check the wheel nut tightness
on all wheels with a torque wrench after your first
100 miles (160 km) and then 1,000 miles (1 600 km) after
that. Whenever a wheel, wheel bolt or wheel nut is
removed or serviced, repeat the 100 miles (160 km), and
then 1,000 mile (1 600 km) wheel nut tightness check.
SeeTightening the Wheel Nuts on page 5-80for wheel
nut tightening information and proper torque values.
{CAUTION:
If you operate your vehicle with a tire that is badly
underinflated, the tire can overheat. An overheated
tire can lose air suddenly or catch fire. You or
others could be injured. Be sure all tires (including
the spare, if any) are properly inflated.
SeeTires on page 5-76andInflation - Tire Pressure on
page 5-77for more information on proper tire inflation.
When It Is Time for New Tires
Various factors, such as maintenance, temperatures,
driving speeds, vehicle loading, and road conditions,
influence when you need new tires.
Replace your tires when the tread depth is down to
1/8 of an inch (3.2 mm) for the front tires, or 1/16 of an
inch (1.6 mm) for a rear tire. Also, you need a new
tire if:
•You can see cord or fabric showing through the
tire’s rubber.
•The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut, or snagged
deep enough to show cord or fabric.
•The tire has a bump, bulge, or split.
•The tire has a puncture, cut, or other damage that
cannot be repaired well because of the size or
location of the damage.
The rubber in tires degrades over time, even if they are
not being used. This is also true for the spare tire, if your
vehicle has one. Multiple conditions affect how fast this
aging takes place, including temperatures, loading
conditions, and inflation pressure maintenance. With
proper care and maintenance tires will typically wear out
before they degrade due to age. If you are unsure about
the need to replace your tires as they get older, consult
the tire manufacturer for more information.
5-78
(14)= Adjust tire pressures as indicated on the
Certification or Tire Information label for optimum tire
life. SeeTires on page 5-76for further details.
Check tires for excessive or abnormal wear or damage.
Also check for damaged wheels. Replace wheels
and/or tires as needed.
(15)= Check spring-to-axle U-bolts and shackle bolts
for proper torque. See the service manual for torque
sequence and specifications. When parts are replaced,
the torque must be checked and adjusted more often
during the first 6,000 miles (10 000 km). Check torque at
500 miles (800 km) and 2,000 miles (3 000 km) after
first use of parts.
(16)= Check complete exhaust system, including DPF
pressure lines, and cab areas near the exhaust system
for broken, damaged, missing, or out-of-position parts.
Also inspect for open seams, holes, loose connections, or
other conditions which could let exhaust fumes seep into
the driver compartment. Needed repairs should be made
at once. To help maintain system integrity, replace
exhaust pipes whenever a new muffler is put on.
(17)= Check all gasoline engine drive belts for cracks,
fraying, and wear. Replace as needed.
(18)= Adjust valve lash. Incorrect valve clearance will
result in increased engine noise and reduced engine
output.(19)= With the engine off and below normal operating
temperature, check to see that the thermostatically
controlled engine cooling fan can be rotated by hand on
viscous-operated drives. Replace as needed.
(20)= Check shields and underhood insulation for
damage or looseness. Adjust or replace as needed.
(21)= Inspect parking brake drum and linings for wear
or cracks and check linkage and adjustment.
(22)= Wheel bearing service:
•Grease type — Clean, inspect, and lubricate with
the proper wheel bearing grease at designated
intervals or when hubs are removed. SeePart C:
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-31.
•Oil-filled type — Some wheel bearings are
lubricated by axle lubricant. When you have oil-filled
hubs, use lubricant identical to that used in the
axle. Lubricant change intervals are the same for
front and rear axles. However, you must maintain
the proper oil level between change intervals.
SeeFront Wheel Bearings with Oil-Filled Hubs on
page 5-75andPart C: Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants on page 6-31.
(23)= Check the air intake system installation to
see that gaskets are seated properly and all hose
connections, fasteners, and other components are tight.
Tighten connections and fasteners or replace parts
as required.
6-23