Should I increase tire pressure when hauling heavy load?

An increased pressure reading (typically 2 to 6 psi higher) is normal when tires are hot. If recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, increase tire pressures for towing, carrying heavy loads, or extended highway travel.

Should I inflate my tires to max load?

What happens if you inflate your tires to the max PSI? Your tires’ max PSI almost always exceeds the recommended pressure. It isn’t advisable to fill your tire to this pressure for everyday driving. At max PSI, your car does not handle as well, braking is impaired, and you could risk dangerous blowouts.

Does load affect tire pressure?

TL;DR: The load does not significantly increase the pressure in the tire, but not inflating the tire more will increase friction. This will heat up the tire. Correct pressure ensures correct contact area – preventing wear on the tire, and keeping rolling friction low.

How much should I increase tire pressure when towing?

at 40 for general driving and 50 for heavy towing (51 is max). Rides a little more firm in general, but helps with mileage. When towing you have enough weight on the tires to mash them down flat so they wear even.

What is the 4 PSI rule?

The 4psi rules states that “if your tyres are inflated correctly then the tyre pressure measured when the tyres are hot (after travel) will be 4psi greater than the pressure measured when they were cold (before travel)”.

Does tyre pressure change with weight?

If you apply force or weight to a tyre or other air-filled vessel such as a balloon and the volume of the vessel decreases as a result, the pressure will increase. In the case of a tyre, the pre-weighted hollow cylindrical form will amount to a greater volume than the compressed and therefore ‘ballooned’ weighted form.

Should I check tyre pressure before or after loading?

If you’re going to be travelling with a heavy load and are going to add a few psi, ideally you should adjust the tyres’ air pressure before loading the vehicle as the added weight also affects the gauge reading.

Should I inflate my trailer tires to max PSI?

When it comes to trailer tires you always want to have them inflated to their max psi when cold. Not only do you get the full capacity at the max psi, you also will generate less heat in the tire since there won’t be as much flex in the sidewall, you’ll get better wear and better fuel mileage.