It's where the rubber meets the road, yet many drivers don't think about their tires until something goes wrong.
That's why Jim Rishel, TSA at the TravelCenters of America in Lamar, Pa., makes a point of reminding every trucker who walks in about the 18 wheels keeping them and their rig moving.
"The first thing I ask everyone who comes in the door is, 'How are your tires?'" says Rishel. "Most truckers forget about their tires until it's too late, and they have a problem."
Letting a tire deteriorate can cause an expensive towing situation, repair or dangerous accident.
Rishel's vigilance, and the service and attention by all shop employees at the Lamar TA, was recently recognized by Bridgestone/Firestone with their 2003 "Ship by Truck" award.
As part of the award, the Lamar staff was treated to a steak cookout by Bridgestone/Firestone.
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Lamar TA
I-80 & S.R. 64, Exit 173
Lamar, Pa.
(570) 726-4996
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"None of this would have been possible without the hard work by the guys in our shop," says Don Nyman, shop manager.
To keep your tires from letting you down, Rishel says they should be checked at every oil change.
"If you're going to spend good money on your tires, you need to take care of them, and they'll last for you," he says.
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Tire Care
Tires represent the single greatest maintenance expense on a truck, according to the Technology and Maintenance Council. Here's a checklist of tire maintenance items that should be checked at every oil change:
Air pressure
Valve stems
Tread wear
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