Should I Always Inflate My Tires to the Maximum Inflation Pressure When Cold

Question:

I have a 6,100 lb camper with ST205/75R14 tires. Load rating D. The placard on the camper says tire pressure should be 65 psi. The tires say MAX inflation is 65 psi. Is it a problem to cold inflate the tires to the maximum rating? I know the pressure will go higher on the road. Is that build up accounted for in the max rating?

asked by: Russell H

Expert Reply:

You'll always want to fill a tire like the Westlake ST205/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire # 274-000012 to the maximum 65psi when cold, since they will be able to handle the increased pressure as they warm up. Running tires below the max pressure leads to tires that wear un-evenly and can cause heat to build up abnormally, which in turn can cause the tires to malfunction.

So the short answer to your question is- yes; and that build up as they get warmer is accounted for.

expert reply by: Erik B