Tire Inflation

[SirPeale]

Been meaning to ask this.  Should I inflate the tires on my car to the value rated on the side of the tire, or what it states in my vehicles handbook?

I've always done the value on the tires, but recently I've been thinking I'm dead wrong about that.

Would it also depend on the size of the tire?  For example, you can use several different sized 13" tires on my car, according to the fine people @ the tire store.

[Bones]

Definitely the recommendations of the vehicles handbook.

[JODY]

Then there was the Ford Explorer debacle where Ford recommended a lower inflation rate than the tire manufacturers recommended.  Lower inflation rates can smooth the ride by allowing the tires to absorb more of the roughness of the road, but it also increases friction that can reduce gas mileage and increase heat buildup (that may cause blowouts).

As long as it is within the recommended limits of the tire, you can vary depending on preference.  I like to air mine closer to the tire maker's recommendations...just a ride preference as I don't like that smooshy ride.

[Bones]

What are we talking about Peale? A couple of PSI difference between the two ratings?

[SirPeale]

What are we talking about Peale? A couple of PSI difference between the two ratings?

Well, on my van the tire is rated for 44PSI on the front, and 35 in the back.  I checked the manual and it states 35 for front and back.

[Bones]

That is a substantial difference. Might be a question to ask the manufacturers. A 9 pound difference would have a big affect on the ability to handle & sbrake.

Or when in doubt, just go the averages.

[DrewKaree]

Think about the question for a second.

What you're essentially wondering is this:

Do I follow the people who manufactured the tire, and made their recommendations based on their tests of the product they produced.

Do I follow the people who made the car, but needed to spec tires to this vehicle they produced, which may or may not be the exact same model tire you currently have on your car.

I have ALWAYS (and will continue to do so) followed the manufacturer of the tire and their recommendations as to PSI, after all, it's in their interest to cover their butts so that the product they produce can be pointed to in court as giving the proper information required to avoid problems.

Besides, Bones can't even stay on his bike, "tyres" or not, and mebbe he sustained a hit to the head in his assident, so what does he know?

[JCL]

Often times the side of the tire has the maximum inflation, not the recommended inflation. The max inflation is needed for the max weight. This would be unusual for most conditions.

If the tires are stock, or basically the same, then go with the car manufacturere's recommendation.

A little off either way isn't a big deal. A large amount of underinflation plus high speed and temperatures is dangerous, so keep an eye on them.

There are ways to test for correct inflation if the tires are quite different from stock, but I doubt you really need to use them.

[missioncontrol]

I used to go with the tire manufacturer's recomendations but then my mechanic told me I need to go by the vehicles recomendations....

basicaly he told me the same thing JCL just said........

Often times the side of the tire has the maximum inflation, not the recommended inflation. The max inflation is needed for the max weight. This would be unusual for most conditions.

He then said if I was hauling a heavy load or towing something heavy I may need to add more air to adjust for it..........

[SOAPboy]

Go ask your local tire guy.. its either 35 or 45psi almsot always.. regardless of vehicle..

[Bones]

Besides, Bones can't even stay on his bike, "tyres" or not, and mebbe he sustained a hit to the head in his assident, so what does he know?

Ahh yes...... this is true.

And from that day forward, I now always pressurise my tyres as per the vehicle manufacturer recommendations.

[SirPeale]

Often times the side of the tire has the maximum inflation, not the recommended inflation. The max inflation is needed for the max weight. This would be unusual for most conditions.

I figured it was something like that.  The language on the tire tipped me off, ie 'Max PSI' not 'Recommended PSI' or whatnot.  It's not ride I'm so concerned with, as I am tire wear.  Too much, and the center wears out.  Too little, the sides.  I want the right amount so it wears evenly.

[Zakk]

44 in front and 35 in back?  Are the tires matched?  Perhaps only the most worn ones were replaced at some time.  I always believe in getting a matched set of tires with equal tread (really helps on slick streets).