2021 International LT — Tire Size & Pressure

Quick answer

• OEM Tire Size: Varies significantly by configuration (common: 295/75R22.5, 11R22.5, 285/75R24.5)
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure: Varies by GAWR and tire (refer to door placard/tire sidewall)
• Bolt Pattern: 10-hole, 285.75mm bolt circle (typically hub-piloted)
• Wheel Size: 22.5 x 8.25", 24.5 x 8.25" (steel or aluminum)
• Load Index/Speed Rating: Varies greatly by tire and application (e.g., Load Range H, J, L; Speed Rating L, M, J)
• Spare Tire Size: Typically full-size matched to driving axle tires, if equipped.
• TPMS Frequency: 433 MHz (common for heavy-duty trucks)

Tire sizes by trim

The International LT series is a highly configurable heavy-duty truck, and as such, "trims" as you might find on a passenger vehicle don't directly apply to tire sizing. Instead, tire sizes are determined by Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR), intended application (e.g., long-haul, regional, tanker), and customer preference. Here are common OEM tire sizes fitted to the 2021 International LT:

It is crucial to consult your specific vehicle's door placard for the exact OEM tire size and recommended cold tire pressures, as these can vary even within the same model year based on dozens of build options.

Recommended replacement tires

When replacing tires on a heavy-duty truck like the International LT, the "best" choice heavily depends on your specific application, mileage, and budget. Commercial tires are categorized by their intended use (e.g., long-haul steer, drive, all-position, regional, severe service). Here are some popular and well-regarded options across different price tiers, keeping in mind specific axle positions often require different tire types:

• Premium Tier (Long-Haul & Fuel Efficiency):

  • Michelin X Line Energy Series (e.g., X Line Energy Z steer, D drive): Known for excellent fuel economy, long tread life, and strong casing for retreading. A common choice for over-the-road operations where every drop of fuel counts.
  • Goodyear Fuel Max Series (e.g., Fuel Max S steer, D drive): Another top-tier option focusing on reduced rolling resistance and extended mileage. Offers strong performance in various weather conditions.

• Mid-Range Tier (Balance of Cost & Performance):

  • Bridgestone M799 (Steer/All-Position), R283A (Steer): Bridgestone offers a broad range of reliable tires, providing good tread life, traction, and durability for diverse applications without the absolute premium price tag.
  • Continental Hybrid Series (e.g., Conti Hybrid HS3 steer, HD3 drive): Designed to offer a balance of fuel efficiency, mileage, and traction for regional and long-haul operations. A solid performer in its class.

• Value Tier (Cost-Effective & Reliable):

  • Roadmaster RM254 (Steer), RM852 (Drive): Roadmaster (a Cooper Tire brand) provides durable and cost-effective solutions for fleets and owner-operators. They offer good wear characteristics and are often a popular choice for their value proposition.
  • Yokohama 104ZR (Steer), 703ZL (Drive): Yokohama offers robust and reliable commercial tires that provide competitive mileage and performance at a more accessible price point.

Always ensure replacement tires match or exceed the load index and speed rating of your OEM tires.

When to inflate to max load psi

For heavy-duty trucks like the International LT, "max load psi" (as indicated on the tire sidewall) is critical. Unlike passenger vehicles, it