[Vwdiesel] Tire pressure

[Doyt W. Echelberger]

That was one of the most meaningful and useful tire posts I have ever read. 
Thank you so much for the clear and concise presentation.

It moves directly into my keeper file.....

Doyt Echelberger
 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
At 05:52 PM 4/14/2006, you wrote:
>Not really, Let me clarify something.
>The tire pressure dictates the spring rate of the tire, and what the
>suspension was designed to work with.
>The tire is a big spring, and putting more or less air in it varies the
>spring rate.  It works in conjunction with the suspension springs that
>were selected by the manufacturer, but changing tire pressures mostly
>changes spring rate on that wheel, since radial tires are designed to
>not change shape under pressure changes within a reasonable level.
>
>99% of what you change with air pressure is ride comfort, and how well
>the suspension sucks up the little bumps- because the tire is a
>suspension component.
>
>Advertising mavens would have you believe there are differences, but
>other than radial tire technology that was introduced long ago, there
>have been no significant changes other than rubber compounds and quieter
>tread designs, which DO NOT affect suspension performance.  For the most
>part, sidewalls haven't changed much other than as fashion statements.
>Sidewall height affects the spring rate significantly if you use tire
>with minimal sidewalls (20" rubber bands)but on our cars, pretty much
>aren't used, but from a suspension point of view are monumentally stupid.
>-James
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