Tire pressure for radials

JasonNC

I bought a new set of radial tires for my Stepdown and the guy that installed them put 40 lb. of pressure in them. To me the ride is rougher and the car steers too easily for my liking. When I go around a curve, it seems like the car is going to slid out from under me instead of hugging it. It's much easier to parallel park, but for some reason I think that I need to lower the pressure. Any suggestions?

bob ward

Without knowing which radials you have, 40 lb seems high, most radials nowadays run at 32 to 35 psi. Best bet is to read the info on the side walls and abide by that.

J Spencer

I run 32- 33lbs in my 51 Pacemaker. Most modern day cars recommend 32-33 lbs.

StillOutThere

Look at the information fine-printed on the side of the tire. What is the maximum pressure for that tire suggested by the manufacturer?

I would suggest you inflate those tires to two pounds LESS than the manufacturer's maximum, drive it and see how you like it. If not happy, then try two pound lower increments until you do like it. You can adjust by a pound when you are close.

My hunch would be you will end up at 35-36 pounds in all 4 tires.

[Deleted User]

Have been running 36 psi on Hudson radials for over 15 years, with no real probs. They seem to make a little more noise than bias, but stop so much better in all weather.