Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

I read that the shorter and more limited life of new tires is due to the materials of which they are made. The new compounds are designed so that the tire will decay into nothing over a short period of time. This is probably to eliminate the large number of tires that end up in dumps and are a problem when (1) rain collects in them, which breeds mosquitoes, and (2) when they catch fire, which is almost impossible to extinguish, before they can be recycled.

(o{}o)

From post #50, previous page:

"For example, 1600 lbs at 40 psi, 1300 lbs at 35 psi, 1000 lbs at 30 psi."

ok. If the tire is designed for 40 psi at 1600 pounds then that means the tire is designed for 40 psi maximum regardless of the weight load. That means do not exceed the weight load nor the psi. It does NOT mean that 40 psi can not be used at lower weight loads too. Maybe not recommended but it is only recommendation not requirement. The requirement is not to exceed the upper bound of psi NOR weight load.

Therefore the highest psi stated can be used regardless of weight provided the highest weight load is not exceeded.

I believe I said that. The main result of increasing the pressure above the level for a given axle loading is a harsher ride and more suspension wear.

When they were doing the Godfather they needed to spin Sonny's 40 Buick Limited around on the 59th Bridge. What they did to make the scene was chain down the rear axle, put on a set of bald tires, and inflate them to 40-50 psi. Then they hosed down the surfaces so the car would spin easy at low speeds. If you look carefully the car isn't going very fast when it spins.

I've been on the road and seen cars suddenly start to hydroplane in a heavy rain so you are not going to find me inflating tires above the pressure required for the axle loading.