An inspector conducting a comprehensive commercial vehicle evaluation notes four distinct borderline conditions across the vehicle's wheel assemblies. According to federal safety regulations, which of the following conditions is legally ACCEPTABLE and permits the vehicle to continue operating?
- A drive axle equipped with dual tires where the inner tire measures 2/32 of an inch of tread depth and the outer tire measures 3/32 of an inch, with no physical contact between their sidewalls.Answer
- BA front steer axle equipped with freshly retreaded tires that measure exactly 3/32 of an inch of tread depth uniformly across all major grooves.
- CA trailer axle equipped with tires measuring 5/32 of an inch of tread depth, mounted on a steel wheel rim that features a professionally welded repair along the outer bead flange.
- DA drive axle equipped with perfectly matched dual tires measuring 6/32 of an inch of tread depth, where the inner and outer tire sidewalls are rubbing against each other near the ground contact point.
Answer
The condition describing a drive axle equipped with dual tires measuring 2/32 and 3/32 of an inch of tread depth, with no physical contact between them, is legally acceptable.
The condition describing a drive axle with dual tires measuring 2/32 and 3/32 of an inch of tread depth without physical contact is legally acceptable. Federal regulations require a minimum of 2/32 of an inch of tread depth for all non-steer tires (including drive and trailer axles), and explicitly stipulate that dual tires must not touch.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Tires, Wheels, and Rims Inspection Limits and Restrictions