2022 International LT Tire Size & Specs

Quick answer

• OEM Steer Tire Size: 295/75R22.5
• OEM Drive Tire Size: 295/75R22.5 (dual)
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure (Steer): 110–120 psi
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure (Drive): 85–100 psi
• Bolt Pattern: 10x285.75mm (10x11.25 in.)
• Wheel Size: 22.5" x 8.25" (standard)
• Load Index/Speed Rating: 144/141L (or higher)
• Spare Tire: Not equipped; requires mobile service or self-repair.
• TPMS System: Typically uses a 433 MHz frequency, often integrated with fleet telematics.

Tire sizes by trim

The 2022 International LT is a Class 8 semi-truck, and its tire and wheel configurations are based on the intended application (e.g., line haul, regional) rather than traditional "trims." However, there are common configurations and optional upgrades.

Note: The choice between standard profile (e.g., 11R22.5) and low-profile (e.g., 295/75R22.5) tires depends on factors like desired ride height, fuel efficiency, and load capacity.

Recommended replacement tires

Choosing the right tire for a heavy-duty truck like the International LT involves balancing durability, fuel efficiency, and traction. Here are a few popular options:

• $$$ - Michelin X-Line Energy Z (Steer) / X-Line Energy D+ (Drive): A top-tier option known for its exceptional fuel economy and long tread life. Its advanced compound technology minimizes rolling resistance, making it a favorite for long-haul applications.
• $$ - Bridgestone R284 Ecopia (Steer) / M713 Ecopia (Drive): A very popular and competitive choice that offers a great blend of performance and value. The Ecopia line is designed for low rolling resistance to save on fuel, without significantly compromising on wear or wet traction.
• $ - Goodyear Endurance LHD (Drive) / Fuel Max LHD (Steer): A reliable and cost-effective choice, Goodyear's Fuel Max and Endurance lines are workhorse tires seen on many fleets. They offer good durability and are built to withstand the rigors of daily use in various conditions.

When to inflate to max load psi

For a heavy-duty truck like the International LT, tire pressure management is critical for safety, tire life, and efficiency. The pressures are not set for "comfort" like in a passenger car, but for the load being carried.

• Follow the Load & Inflation Tables: Unlike passenger cars, commercial truck tires should be inflated according to the manufacturer's load and inflation tables. These tables specify the exact PSI needed to carry a given weight per tire.
• Steer Axle Pressure: Steer tires are typically inflated to a higher pressure (110-120 psi) to handle the weight of the engine and provide responsive steering. This pressure should be set according to the actual scaled weight of the front axle.
• Drive Axle Pressure: Drive tire pressure varies significantly based on the load. For a fully loaded trailer (e.g., 80,000 lbs gross), drive tires may require 95-100 psi. When driving with an empty trailer ("deadheading"), this pressure can often be safely lowered to 85-90 psi to improve traction and reduce irregular wear. Over-inflating drive tires when unloaded is a common cause of accelerated center-line wear.
• Never Exceed Max Sidewall PSI: Do not inflate a cold tire beyond the maximum pressure stamped on the tire's sidewall. This is a safety limit, not a recommended operating pressure.

Lug nut torque & pattern

Properly torquing wheel nuts on a heavy-duty truck is a critical safety procedure to prevent wheel-off events.

• Torque Specification: 450–500 ft-lbs (foot-pounds)
• Socket Size: 33mm
• Torque Pattern: Use a star or crisscross pattern to ensure the wheel is seated evenly against the hub. Start by tightening all nuts to a snug position (around 100 ft-lbs), then repeat the star pattern, bringing them to the final torque specification.
• Re-Torque: It is an industry best practice to re-torque all lug nuts after the first 50–100 miles of driving after a wheel has been installed.

Common tire issues for this vehicle

The International LT is a robust platform, but like any Class 8 truck, it is susceptible to specific tire wear patterns if not properly maintained.

• Steer Tire River/Channel Wear: Wavy wear patterns on the edges of steer tires are common. This is often caused by a combination of factors including improper toe alignment, worn suspension components (like kingpins), and inconsistent inflation pressures. Regular alignments are crucial.
• Drive Tire Center-Line Wear: As mentioned, this is almost always a result of running too much air pressure for the load. When the truck is unloaded or lightly loaded, the drive tires should have their pressure reduced according to load/inflation charts.
• Shoulder Wear on Drive Tires (in Duals): When the inside and outside tires of a dual assembly wear on their shoulders, it's often a sign of a bent axle, worn wheel bearings, or mismatched tires. Always ensure that dual tires are of the same make, model, size, and have a similar tread depth.

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