2021 International MV — Tire Size & Pressure

Quick answer

• OEM Tire Size: 11R22.5, 295/75R22.5
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure (Front/Rear): Varies by specific vehicle configuration, GAWR, and tire. Refer to door placard. Typically 100-110 psi for highway applications.
• Bolt Pattern: 10x285.75mm
• Wheel Size: 22.5 x 8.25 inches
• Load Index/Speed Rating: Varies greatly by specific tire and application. Common ratings include 146/143L (11R22.5) or 144/141L (295/75R22.5).
• Spare Tire Size: Typically matches one of the OEM tire sizes (11R22.5 or 295/75R22.5).
• TPMS Frequency: 433 MHz (common for heavy-duty commercial applications)

Tire sizes by trim

The International MV is a medium-duty commercial truck chassis, and as such, "trims" don't dictate tire sizes in the same way they do for passenger vehicles. Instead, tire sizes are specified based on the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR), intended application, and customer preference. However, the most common OEM sizes you'll encounter are:

Other sizes may be available depending on specific chassis configurations, specialized vocational upfits, and wheel choices (e.g., wider floatation tires for specific vocational use).

Recommended replacement tires

Hemvy-duty truck tires are a significant investment, and the best choice depends heavily on your specific application (e.g., long haul, regional, construction, refuse), load requirements, and desired performance characteristics like fuel economy, traction, or durability. Here are some popular and highly regarded options across different price tiers often chosen for vehicles like the International MV:

• Premium Option: Michelin X Line Energy Z (Steer) / X Line Energy D (Drive)

  • Price Tier: $$$$
  • Why it's good: Engineered for exceptional fuel efficiency, long mileage, and even wear. Excellent for long-haul and regional applications where fuel economy is paramount. Michelin is a top-tier brand known for innovation and quality.

• Mid-Range Option: Continental HDL2 Eco Plus (Drive) / HSL3 Eco Plus (Steer)

  • Price Tier: $$$$
  • Why it's good: Offers a great balance of fuel efficiency, traction, and durability. Continental is a strong competitor in the commercial tire market, providing reliable performance at a competitive premium price point.

• Value Option: Goodyear G399 LHS (Steer) / G392 MSD (Drive)

  • Price Tier: $$$$
  • Why it's good: Goodyear offers robust and reliable options for various applications. These tires provide solid performance and durability for a range of medium-duty commercial uses, often at a more accessible price than some top-tier premium brands.

• Application-Specific Option: Bridgestone M703 (All-Position) / M860 (Drive)

  • Price Tier: $$$$
  • Why it's good: Bridgestone is another leader in commercial tires. The M703 is a versatile all-position tire good for mixed service, while the M860 is a drive tire designed for improved traction in vocational and on/off-road applications.

When to inflate to max load psi

For heavy-duty trucks like the 2021 International MV, recommended cold tire pressures are crucial for safety, tire longevity, and vehicle performance. The pressures listed on the door placard are minimums for full load conditions on that specific axle. You should always inflate your tires to at least the pressure specified on the vehicle's tire placard, especially when operating at or near the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).

It is common practice, and generally recommended, to inflate commercial truck tires to the maximum cold inflation pressure embossed on the tire's sidewall if you are consistently operating at or near the maximum load capacity for that tire or axle. This ensures the tire can support the load without excessive flexing, which generates heat and can lead to premature wear or failure. Consult your tire manufacturer's load and inflation tables for precise recommendations based on your actual weighed axle loads. Under-inflation is a leading cause of tire failure in commercial vehicles.

Lug nut torque & pattern

Proper lug nut torque is critical for commercial truck wheels due to the heavy loads and stresses they endure. Incorrect torque can lead to wheel stud failure, wheel loss, or uneven tire wear. The International MV commonly uses a 10-stud wheel with a 285.75mm bolt circle.

• Lug Nut Torque: Typically ranges from 450-500 ft-lbs (610-678 Nm) for 22.5-inch wheels with 10 studs. Always refer to the International MV service manual or the wheel manufacturer's specifications for the exact torque values for your specific wheels and studs. Over-torquing can be as damaging as under-torquing.

• Tightening Pattern: A star pattern (or criss-cross pattern) should always be used to ensure even clamping force across the wheel hub. This prevents distortion of the wheel and ensures proper seating. After initial tightening, it's recommended to re-check torque after the first 50-100 miles of operation, and periodically thereafter, especially after wheel removal or tire replacement.

Common tire issues for this vehicle

Commercial trucks like the International MV are susceptible to specific tire issues due to their demanding operating conditions:

• Uneven Wear: Often caused by improper alignment, unbalanced tires, incorrect tire pressure (under or over-inflation), or worn suspension components. Cupping, feathering, or shoulder wear are common symptoms.
• Heat Buildup/Blowouts: Primarily due to under-inflation, which causes excessive sidewall flexing and heat generation. Overloading can also contribute significantly to this issue.
• Curb Damage/Sidewall Cuts: Common in vocational applications or urban delivery where tires frequently encounter curbs, potholes, or construction debris.
• Irregular Wear Patterns on Drive Axles: Drive tires often experience more rapid and uneven wear due to torque application. Proper rotation and balancing are key.
• TPMS Malfunctions: While a vital safety feature, TPMS sensors can fail due to battery depletion, physical damage, or exposure to harsh environmental conditions in commercial use. Regular checks of the system are important.

Regular inspections, maintaining correct tire pressures, proper wheel alignment, and timely tire rotations are essential to maximize tire life and ensure safety for your International MV.

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