Tire Pressure?

[<douggie>]

Does anyone know the best tire pressure for the Dunlop SP5000s that go on our P5s? The stickers at the side of the doors suggests 32 PSI, but if you read the side wall of the tire, the Max pressure is 51 PSI.

Of course we shouldn't inflate to 51 PSI, but isn't 32 PSI way below that max pressure?

Some other people suggested 40 PSI, but I don't know how did they get that magic number.

Lastly, is higher tire pressure better in preventing wheels from being bent while running over potholes?

 

[<jason>]

The tire pressure can range from 32 to 51 psi. even lower for racing applications, and your desire for performance, ride, longevity of tire, and gas milage,should be the factors considered when deciding. A softer, lower pressure tire will grab pavement much better, but wears the tire quickly and eats up your gas milage. A firm, higher pressure tire will last longer wearwise, and will give you better gas milage, but the car will ride like a buckboard. For city driving yes, long trip home no.It really is up to you and your driving habits.

 

[brennan]

ok, I am a mechanic and I do tires alot, like the last guy said lower for more performance but it has its downfalls, usually if a tire side wall says 51 psi I usually put 40 - 45 psi, just thought I'd let ya know

 

[<douggie>]

Thanks mazdaspeed19. I now have 35 PSI on the tires right now and I might add 2-3 PSI more to see how it feels.

 

[pthornb]

Anyone run different pressures depending on the season (winter vs. spring/summer)?

 

[Steve]

i went to change my oil about a week ago... i refuse to do it in january in michigan, although it has been 50 here for a few days... and the jerky boys put my tires at 32 psi. nuts to them.