2016 Peterbilt 579: Tire Size, Pressure & Wheel Specs

Quick answer

• OEM Steer Axle Tire Size: 295/75R22.5
• OEM Drive Axle Tire Size: 295/75R22.5 (in a dual-rear-wheel setup)
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure (Placard): Steer Axle: 110-120 PSI | Drive Axle: 85-100 PSI. Always verify with your door placard and tire manufacturer specs based on load.
• Bolt Pattern: 10x285.75mm (10x11.25")
• Wheel Size: 22.5" x 8.25"
• Load Index / Speed Rating: 144/141L is a common rating for this size. (144 = 6173 lbs single, 141 = 5677 lbs dual, L = 75 mph speed limit)
• Spare Tire: Commercial trucks like the 579 typically do not carry a spare tire assembly due to size and weight.
• TPMS System: Most 2016 Peterbilt 579s use a 315 MHz TPMS frequency for factory-installed systems, though aftermarket systems can vary.

Tire Sizes by Configuration

The 2016 Peterbilt 579 is highly configurable from the factory. While the 295/75R22.5 is the most common fitment for both steer and drive axles, several other options were available to optimize for fuel economy, regional haul, or specific loads. Low-profile tires are a popular alternative.

Note: Using "super single" wide-base tires on drive axles in place of a dual-rear-wheel (DRW) setup requires specific wide-base wheels.

Recommended Replacement Tires

Choosing the right tire depends heavily on your application (long haul, regional, etc.), budget, and desired fuel efficiency. Here are a few trusted options for a 295/75R22.5 fitment:

• $$$ (Premium): Michelin X-Line Energy Z (Steer) / Energy D (Drive): A top-tier option known for its exceptional fuel economy, long tread life, and even wear. It’s an investment that pays off for high-mileage operations.
• $$ (Mid-Range): Bridgestone R284 Ecopia (Steer) / M710 Ecopia (Drive): Excellent balance of performance and price. The Ecopia line provides good fuel efficiency and a durable casing that is well-regarded for retreading.
• $ (Value): Goodyear Endurance LHS (Steer) / LHD (Drive): A workhorse tire that offers reliable performance and durability at a more accessible price point. It provides good traction and is a popular choice for fleets and owner-operators alike.

When to Inflate to Max Load PSI

For a heavy-duty truck like the Peterbilt 579, tire pressure is critical for safety, tire life, and efficiency. Unlike passenger cars, commercial truck tires are inflated based on the actual axle load.

You should only inflate tires to the maximum pressure indicated on the tire's sidewall when the axle is carrying its maximum legal weight. Over-inflating tires for a light load can lead to a harsh ride, premature center wear, and a reduced contact patch, which can affect traction.

Always use a calibrated tire pressure gauge and consult the load/inflation tables provided by your tire's manufacturer. The pressure listed on your door jamb sticker is a starting point for typical loads but should be adjusted for the actual weight you are hauling to optimize performance and safety.

Lug Nut Torque & Pattern

Properly torquing wheel nuts on a 10-lug hub is crucial for preventing wheel-off incidents.

• Torque Spec: 450-500 ft-lbs for hub-piloted wheels (verify with your specific wheel type).
• Socket Size: 1-5/16" or 33mm for most standard lug nuts.
• Torquing Pattern: Use a star or crisscross pattern to ensure the wheel is seated evenly against the hub. Start by snugging the nuts in sequence, then go around again in the same pattern to apply the final torque. It's best practice to re-torque the wheels after the first 50-100 miles of a trip.

Common Tire Issues for this Vehicle

The Peterbilt 579 is a modern, aerodynamically efficient truck, but like any Class 8 vehicle, it is susceptible to certain tire wear patterns.

• Steer Axle Edge Wear: Misalignment is the number one cause of rapid wear on steer tires. Cupping or scalloping on the shoulder of the steer tires often points to worn shocks or suspension components that allow the tire to bounce excessively.
• Drive Axle Shoulder Wear (DRW): Mismatched tire pressures or diameters between the two tires in a dual setup can cause one tire to drag or "fight" the other, leading to rapid shoulder wear. Always ensure duals are matched in pressure, brand, model, and tread depth.
• River Wear / Irregular Wear: This pattern, often seen on the trailing axles of tandem-axle tractors, is frequently caused by alignment issues (specifically toe and thrust angle) and can be accelerated by high-speed, empty-load driving.

Regular alignments, suspension checks, and diligent pressure management are the best defenses against premature tire failure.

Need new tires? Find a trusted shop on Repairius.