AboutBarry Smith Expertise I have over 30 years experience in the design, manufacturing, and
testing of tires. I have served as the technical advisor to the "800"
number. I have authored or co-authored many publications - usually
without credit. I can answer almost any technical question, but
please don`t ask me to compare brands. I probably have prejudices because of
my work experience.
Experience Member SAE (Society of Automotive
Engineers)
Member Tire Society (Tire Technical Organization)
SCCA Regional Competiton License holder
Authored many training manuals on tires, their care and use.
Expert: Barry Smith Date: 6/22/2008 Subject: Differing tire pressure recommendations
Question I own a 1993 Chevy Suburban. The label on the door jam says the tires should be LT245/75R16 with a tire pressure of 45 psi. When I had my tires replaced, they were replaced with P245/75R16 tires and were filled to 35 psi. What is the correct psi for the tires I have on the truck now? Thanks!
Answer Carin,
Ordinarily I don't recommend the replacement of "LT" tires with "P" tires. The reason I don't recommend this that usually there is a significant difference in load carrying capacity and you either have way too much or way too little. Not to mention that tyhe sprong rates of the 2 types are quite different and this affects the way the suspenion reacts to road input.
But this is one of those exceptions. This is at the borcerline between the 2 and I think it mioght be OK to do. Just be aware that the "P" tiores are much softer and will tend to sway and react slower.
