Community Forums

TheArnolds · 07-28-2012, 05:04 PM

I have been see Tractor/Trailer (18 wheeler) using a single wide tire (Super Single) as a replacement for the duels on the tractor. The footprint appears to be as wide a two duel tires. Is this something we are going to see on Class A's in the future?

kalynzoo · 07-28-2012, 05:12 PM

I attended an RV show where this was in the discussion. One big tire and wheel is lighter than two smaller thus reducing weight, possibly increasing performance and/or fuel economy.
To replace existing tires and wheels seems like an excessive expense, however, in a new rig the factory may soon choose the single tire option.
Like most good ideas there is a downside...finding a roadside replacement if the tire is damaged.

Mr_D · 07-28-2012, 05:16 PM

Newmar tested them some years ago. So far they still use the regular duals so they must have fond some reason not to use them.

TheArnolds · 07-28-2012, 05:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kalynzoo

I attended an RV show where this was in the discussion. One big tire and wheel is lighter than two smaller thus reducing weight, possibly increasing performance and/or fuel economy.
To replace existing tires and wheels seems like an excessive expense, however, in a new rig the factory may soon choose the single tire option.
Like most good ideas there is a downside...finding a roadside replacement if the tire is damaged.

I did view a number of discussions about replacement other threads, cost, replacement availability, etc. but I was wondering if any coach manufacturer was considering the "Super Single"? I agree that at new make the cost would be less an issue.

baraff · 07-28-2012, 05:38 PM

Perhaps it's perceived public perception of how capable or durable a single wheel/tire combo is vs the proven dual system, which has been around since trucks were invented? Maybe manufacturers feel they won't be accepted. No doubt ridiculous since the trucking industry seems to be accepting them but maybe it's a harder sell to the RVing public.

DonDee · 07-28-2012, 06:06 PM

Those big tires were really big in the 70's, especially on the rear of TC rigs. We called them duplex. Lots of fuel trucks use them now. 10 or 12x16.5 was a common truck camper size.

Dave Fernandez · 07-30-2012, 04:57 PM

I had the Michelin X1 tires installed on my Alpine about 2 ½ years ago. I have been happy with them. I lost a little over two hundred pounds of un-sprung weight off the rear axle and I have gained about 4 tenths of a mile in fuel savings.

I also have a softer ride on the rear axle. So overall I am happy with the results and I glad I did make the change.

butterbean · 07-30-2012, 05:12 PM

HOW ABOUT ON TRUCKS TOWING 5TH WHEELS?? i HADN'T HEARD ANYTHING ABOUT 'WIDE' TIRES UNTIL NOW!!!

BartLee · 07-30-2012, 05:49 PM

Don't quote me on this but I have herd that they do very well while towing on a one ton truck. But they don't handle very well when the truck is empty. No personal experience just talk with some friends that have them. Hope to here more about them as I am thinking about putting them on my one ton.

Ray,IN · 07-30-2012, 06:47 PM

Wide tread width tires have an inherent problem; even wear across the width. This is not an issue for most consistently-loaded vehicles, however on a pickup the load varies between unloaded and what you haul/tow. One would be adjusting tire pressures every time_ or accept uneven tire wear and very poor tire performance when pressure is at the other end of your needs.
Another issue for RV'ers is safety upon experiencing a flat/blowout. With duals you have a safety net when one goes flat/blowout until you can safely reach a place to have the tire repaired/replaced. Of course I've heard the argument that a steering tire doesn't have any such safety net, but what vehicle does that the public drives?
IMO, if you wish to change to super-singles on the rear do so, I decline.

Tugboat · 07-30-2012, 10:23 PM

You will see a air up system on truckes that have super singles. If your tire starts to loose air the system keeps filling the tire and a light on the dash tells you. As for tha trailer there is a light on the left side of the trailer that you can see in your mirror that lets you know you have a problem.

In snow and wet weather there is a tendecy to hydroplane on dry roads your tire runs cooler, you get a better ride and better fuel milage. The super singles also wear better and no problem of miss matched tires on the same axle that will cause a hot tire.

Mr_D · 07-30-2012, 10:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheArnolds

I did view a number of discussions about replacement other threads, cost, replacement availability, etc. but I was wondering if any coach manufacturer was considering the "Super Single"? I agree that at new make the cost would be less an issue.

You must have missed my post just before yours:

Quote:

Newmar tested them some years ago. So far they still use the regular duals so they must have found some reason not to use them.