Date:         Mon, 13 Oct 2008 08:26:37 -0700
Reply-To:     Jim Cochran <mxsailor@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Jim Cochran <mxsailor@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Tire pressures
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes

Hi List,
I read: "After reading list discussions on best tire for Vanagon I
purchased 5 x
$66.32 Hankook RA08 All-Season Radial Tire 185R14C locally (spare was
original tire which was also replaced). Air pressure 44 front 53 rear
(5 psi
above name plate recommended pressures). Now has very firm ride
without body
sway in turns."

I just purchased a set of Altimax 205 R70 14 XLs and the tire is rated
at 51 psi. Would it be wise for me to add 5 psi above recommended
(which would take me over the rated pressure)? I noticed the ride
seems soft and there's more sway in the corners, hence my question.
Also, since a lot of my driving is in temps above 90 (I live in
Mexico) wouldn't air pressure rise as the tires heat up on the road? I
understand that the tires may get a tad softer with the heat index,
and able to withstand the increase, but this is just a guess. I know
there's a Phoenix driver on the list (I'm due south in San Carlos),
maybe there's some wisdom there?

Jim C
71 Van
86 Westy 2.1L "Vanilla"