SKF USA has announced the expansion of options for its premium wheel end system warranty packages to five or seven years, under the SKF Trouble-Free Operation (TFO) program, for the trailer OEM. With this SKF TFO program enhancement, trailer OEMs now have the flexibility to customize warranty periods based on the products in the package that are more in line with their customers’ demands.

To qualify for the extended warranty options customers must use the SKF ScotsealPlusXL, the SKF TF hubcap and Hyatt-branded tapered roller bearings. The SKF wheel end system products can be used with proven industry spindle nut designs and approved lubricants.

In expanding the SKF TFO warranty wheel end system package options, SKF has continued to evaluate and ensure compatibility of its products with the automatic tire inflation system (A.T.I.S.), the Meritor Tire Inflation System (MTIS) by P.S.I. SKF is a factory first-fit on many U.S. truck manufacturers with the SKF Scotseal PlusXL and TF hubcaps, and with the increasing utilization of A.T.I.S., the company says it has been critical in making sure that the TFO platform works well with the company in A.T.I.S., currently protecting nearly 2 million trailer tires.

“The industry has been asking for wheel end products that both work together and complement each other, especially when it comes to warranties,” said Scott Simmonds, vice president of heavy-duty sales at SKF. “Fleets want to know that they can use the best products without having to worry about conflicting warranties later on.”

The expansion of SKF TFO warranty wheel end system package options offer several advantages for OEMs and fleets. The package options do not require customers to purchase pre-assembled kits. Instead, customers can continue to purchase and install products as they do today. Fleets can reduce sourcing by using SKF wheel end components on both truck and trailer applications. SKF also will manage the warranty program with minimal inconvenience to the trailer OEM or fleet sales manager.