Don't Blow Under Pressure: Master the Art of Tyre Inflation!
Maintaining your tyres isn't just about keeping them inflated; it's about appreciating the journey from their humble beginnings to the advanced technology we rely on today. Let's take a look at tyre inflation, combining technical know-how with straightforward advice.
A Journey Through Tyre History
The story of car tyres goes like this- evolving from solid rubber circles that made every trip a bone-shaker, to the air-filled wonders we take for granted today. It all changed with the advent of pneumatic tyres, a leap in technology that brought unparalleled comfort and efficiency to our rides. This historical perspective isn't just trivia; it's a reminder of how far we've come in making our journeys smoother and safer.
Marks & Wallings is your local tyre store, specialising in brands such as Falken, Pirelli, Michelin, Toyo and Continental and more. We have something to suit all vehicles and budgets.
The Lowdown on Modern Pneumatic Tyres
Fast forward to the present, and tyres are marvels of engineering, designed to enhance performance, safety, and comfort. Pneumatic tyres, filled with pressurised air—or nitrogen, in some cases—offer a ride quality that those early inventors could only dream of. They cushion the road's imperfections, grip surfaces with precision, and distribute your vehicle's weight efficiently, proving that air really can make a world of difference.
Why Tyre Pressure Matters
Understanding the importance of tyre pressure is crucial. It's not just about following guidelines; it's about ensuring your vehicle performs at its best. The right tyre pressure can mean the difference between a fuel-efficient, smooth and predictable ride and one that's rough and costly at the pump. We'll show you how to find your vehicle's recommended pressures and why sticking to them is key for optimal tyre health and performance.
The Balancing Act: Pressure Insights
It’s crucial that your tyre pressure is roughly in line with what your vehicle manufacturer recommends.
Too much or too little pressure each comes with its own set of challenges. High pressure can reduce the tyre's contact with the road, leading to decreased grip and uneven wear.
Low pressure, on the other hand, can increase rolling resistance, upping fuel consumption and wear. It's all about finding that perfect balance for your driving conditions.
Keeping on Top of Tyre Pressure
Regularly checking your tyre pressure is easier than you might think and is an essential part of vehicle maintenance. You should check your tyre pressure at least fortnightly. Routinely checking your tyre pressures can give you early warning of issues such as slow leaks or tyre damage.
Each wheel on your vehicle will have a small air valve you can use to test and change the pressure of your tyres. Simply unscrew the cap to access the valve. Remember to install the valve when you’re done as a dirty valve is likely to leak air.
- Look at your tyre placard sticker or owner's manual to find your recommended tyre pressures. If you have aftermarket wheels or tyres, your ideal tyre pressures may differ slightly, but the manufacturers recommendations give you a great starting point.
- Using a cheap gauge or the compressed air at your local service station, you can compare how much air is in your tyres to what your recommended pressures should be. Within a few PSI either
- If you’re already using the compressed air at the service station to check your pressures, you can top your tyres up now, otherwise a foot pump, cheap 12v electric pump or even a battery powered pump can be used to top your tyres up. If you need to let air out for whatever reason, simply use something to slightly press the pin in the middle of the valve.
Once your tyres are close to the recommended pressures, double check you’ve reinstalled your dust caps onto your valves. If you notice that one tyre is consistently lower than the other tyres, it’s worth bring your vehicle in to Marks & Wallings to have it checked for damage, punctures or leaks.
Adjusting Pressure for Different Conditions
There are times when adjusting your tyre pressure is beneficial, like when heading off-road or carrying heavy loads. We'll delve into when and why you might consider these adjustments, providing practical advice to tailor your tyre pressure to the situation.
Typically if you’re driving on soft sand or rocks, you want to take some air out of your tyres. The reduced pressure helps tyres get more traction and reduces the likelihood of puncture damage. While your tyre pressure is reduced, you also want to reduce your maximum travel speed to avoid the tyre sidewalls becoming too hot. The exact pressure you want will heavily depend on what vehicle you have, how heavily loaded it is, what surfaces you’re driving on as well as what speeds you want to travel.
If you’re carrying heavy loads, adding a bit of extra pressure to your tyres will provide extra support. Overloaded and underinflated tyres will have excessive sidewall flexing which produces heat that can lead to permanent sidewall damage.
Your Tyre Inflation Toolkit
Understanding and managing tyre inflation is a straightforward yet crucial aspect of vehicle care. We recommend investing in a reliable tyre pressure gauge and making regular checks part of your routine. Such a gauge can be purchased cheaply at a local auto parts store.
Should you have any questions or need advice, we're here to offer our expertise. Reach out or, come see the expert team at Marks & Wallings for the latest products, a huge range and outstanding customer service. Call us today on (02) 9807 1000 or visit us at 940-946 Victoria Rd, West Ryde.
Embrace the journey of tyre maintenance with us, where expertise meets practicality, ensuring your travels are safe, efficient, and enjoyable.