2017 Kenworth W900 Tire Size & Pressure

Quick Answer

• OEM Tire Size:
  • Steer Axle: 11R22.5, 295/75R22.5, 385/65R22.5
  • Drive Axle: 11R22.5, 295/75R22.5
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure (Door Placard): Varies significantly based on tire size, load, and axle configuration. Always consult the tire placard located on the driver's side door jamb for your specific vehicle.
  • General range: 90-120 psi (620-827 kPa) for most applications.
• Bolt Pattern: 10-hole, 285.75mm bolt circle diameter (Budd style) or 10-hole, 335mm bolt circle diameter (ISO style).
• Wheel Size: 22.5 x 8.25 inches, 22.5 x 9.00 inches, 22.5 x 12.25 inches (for wider steer tires).
• Load Index/Speed Rating: Varies greatly by tire size and application. Common load indexes for steer tires range from 144-156, and drive tires 144-149. Speed ratings for commercial truck tires are typically L (75 mph / 120 km/h) or M (81 mph / 130 km/h).
• Spare Tire Size: Typically matches one of the equipped road tires.
• TPMS Frequency: 433 MHz (standard for heavy-duty trucks).

Tire Sizes by Trim

The Kenworth W900 is a highly customizable heavy-duty truck, and tire sizes are primarily determined by the specific application, axle configuration, and customer preference rather than traditional "trims." Here are common options:

Note: "LP" designations (e.g., 295/75R22.5LP) indicate Low Profile tires, common for reduced overall height or specific trailer coupling requirements.

Recommended Replacement Tires

When replacing tires on a Kenworth W900, it's crucial to select tires designed for the specific axle position (steer, drive, or trailer) and intended use (e.g., long-haul, regional, vocational, off-road). Here are some popular options across different price tiers:

• Premium Tier (Long-Haul/Regional):
  • Michelin X Line Energy Z (Steer): Known for excellent fuel efficiency and long tread life. Price: $$$
  • Goodyear Fuel Max LHD G505D (Drive): Designed for fuel economy and traction in line haul applications. Price: $$$
• Mid-Range Tier (Versatile Performance):
  • Continental Hybrid HS3 (Steer): Offers a good balance of fuel efficiency, mileage, and irregular wear resistance. Price: $$
  • Bridgestone M713 Ecopia (Drive): A popular choice for SmartWay verified fuel efficiency and strong traction. Price: $$
• Value Tier (Reliable & Economical):
  • Hankook AH12 (Steer): A solid all-position tire offering good durability and mileage for the price. Price: $
  • Sumitomo ST719 (Drive): Provides dependable traction and decent wear characteristics for cost-conscious operators. Price: $

When to Inflate to Max Load PSI

For heavy-duty trucks like the Kenworth W900, tire pressure is paramount for safety, handling, tire longevity, and fuel efficiency. Unlike passenger vehicles, where a single recommended pressure often applies, truck tire pressure should be adjusted based on the actual load being carried by each axle.

Always refer to the manufacturer's tire inflation tables or a reputable tire brand's load and inflation tables. These tables correlate specific tire sizes and load indexes with recommended cold inflation pressures for various axle loads. Over-inflation can lead to irregular wear, harsher ride, and reduced traction, while under-inflation causes excessive heat buildup, increased rolling resistance, premature tire failure, and reduced fuel economy.

Only inflate tires to the maximum PSI indicated on the tire's sidewall if your axle is consistently carrying the absolute maximum weight permitted for that tire. In most operational scenarios, particularly when running empty or lightly loaded, the tires will require less pressure than the sidewall maximum. The goal is to match the tire pressure to the load, ensuring the tire