Why Do Trailer Tires Need to Be Inflated to Maximum Cold Pressure

Updated 07/24/2019 | Published 07/22/2019

Question:

With the load rating on these tires, is it important to actually be up to 90 psi For the best performance?

asked by: Joe R

Expert Reply:

Yes, you always want to keep your trailer tires like # AM3H470 inflated to the maximum COLD pressure indicated on their side wall. As you start your travel day the tires' pressure will naturally increase due to the higher temperature caused by friction, but this is not anything you need to compensate for. The key is to start your travel day with the cold tires inflated to their maximum pressure which is the only way you can get their full weight carrying capacity.

Tire # AM3H470 will handle 1650-lbs when properly inflated to its specified 90-psi pressure. Even if you do not need all of that weight capacity you still want to keep the tires inflated to their 90-psi maximum cold pressure.

Some RV owners looking for a smoother ride will try under-inflating their tires to improve ride quality but this is both ineffective and unsafe. Improper tire inflation can cause serious problems for tires. Underinflating your tires can cause poor handling, fast and/or irregular wear, decreased fuel economy and permanent structural damage to the tire. Overinflating can reduce traction, braking ability and handling, as well as result in uneven wear and an uncomfortable ride.

expert reply by: Adam R