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Tire pressure for 20's?

2.1K views 10 replies 7 participants last post by  CUZICAN  
#1 ·
Hey guys - what PSI are you running your 20s at?
 
#6 ·
245/40r20
 
#10 · (Edited)
Sidewall just shows max pressure. What you should use is generally 28-36 psi, it all depends on your local weather conditions, tire size, and several other variables.

best bet is to inflate the tire to 33-35 psi, and watch how they sit. If you see them balooning a bit in the middle, that's too much air pressure. If the middle of the contact patch wears slower than the outsides, or you feel that the vehicle feels wishy-washy as far as handling, then that's too little, and the tire is underinflated.



http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tire#Inflation_pressure said:
Inflation pressure
Tires are specified by the vehicle manufacturer with a recommended inflation pressure, which permits safe operation within the specified load rating and vehicle loading. Most tires are stamped with a maximum pressure rating (for USA only). For passenger vehicles and light trucks, the tires should be inflated to what the vehicle manufacturer recommends, which is usually located on a decal just inside the driver's door or in the vehicle owners handbook. Tires should not be inflated to the pressure on the sidewall; this is the maximum pressure, rather than the recommended pressure.[4]

If tire pressure is too high, the tire contact patch is reduced. This decreases rolling resistance, but does not necessarily decrease braking distance.[5] In addition, ride comfort is reduced and the center of the tread may wear more quickly than the shoulder.[6]

If tire pressure is too low, the tire contact patch is increased. This increases rolling resistance, tire flexing, and friction between the road and tire. Underinflation can lead to tire overheating, premature tread wear, and tread separation in severe cases. Significant underinflation can also increase braking distance.[7]