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Subject:Re: Hoop Humbug----
From:Frank Grunthaner
Date:Sun, 31 Mar 2002 13:04:33 EST

In a message dated 3/31/02 9:48:33 AM, mike_l_f@HOTMAIL.COM writes:

<< IMHO, that's why my '87 Westy door sticker says 48 psi for the  185R/14 C
(Commercial) - no load range specified,  and 40 psi for the 205R/14, LR 97.
The 185 Commercial will handle about 1400 Lbs at 48 PSI.  The 205 LR 97 will
handle about 1600 lbs AT 50 PSI, and at 40 psi will still handle 1400 lbs
easily.  I suspect the 205 at 50 psi would be too stiff for a comfortable
ride. >>

Mike,

I have found it surprisingly hard to get the load vs. pressure curves from
Yokohama over the Geolander series. But for all Vanagons, the actual pressure
(assuming correct tires) and pressure differential from front to back is a
serious issue for handling (onset of oversteer). As I have posted (archives),
the new scanning temperature probes are ideal for setting pressures. A
uniform temperature scan across the tread is the first requirement (same temp
+/- 1 degree C) and then same temp front to back. The pressures will be hot
values, so remeasure the temperature cold for reference numbers after the
experiment. Too me about 6 hours to dial em in the last time.

Frank Grunthaner