Bridgestone Bandag Tire Solutions designed the Bandag-brand BDR-HT3 tread for less-than-truckload fleet customers operating single-axle tractors. Used in the drive axle position, the BDR-HT3 incorporates a tread compound and tread pattern that resists tears and tread chunking while delivering additional mileage.
The BDR-HT3’s bow tie-shaped tread block distributes torque forces evenly for reduced block stress, while the wider, buttressed shape design strengthens the block, helping it stand up to heavy torque and braking. Tie bars link tread blocks to neighboring blocks, reducing the effects of tearing and cracking. An interlocking tread design and slightly angled block edges combat heel and toe wear. The BDR-HT3 has an aggressive true open shoulder and a 28/32-inch tread design for added traction and long wear.
BBTS’ Firestone-brand FT455 Plus trailer tire is built for fuel efficiency without sacrificing removal mileage, and is approved for use on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency SmartWay-certified equipment and suited for fleets running California Air Resources Board-compliant vehicles. The FT455 Plus – which will be available initially in size 295/75R22.5 with a “G” load rating – is designed for free-rolling positions, including trailer axles, tag axles and converter dollies.
The radial’s cap, base and sidewall compounding provides added low rolling resistance and promotes long, even wear with its five-rib design and shallow 12/32-inch original tread depth. For added durability, solid shoulder ribs combat tearing and chunking damage that can occur from curbing. Straight flow-through tread grooves and extensive rib siping evacuate water for solid wet traction, and the casing – with four full-steel belts and an all-steel ply – can be retreaded for either trailer or drive axle service.
