TomT said:
Actually, it has been discussed before in other threads on here...
I suspect that all you have gained by going to 45 pounds is a slight loss of traction (mostly in braking, somewhat less so in cornering) and a harder ride. Anecdotal evidence indicates that the difference in rolling resistance between 40 and 45 is barely measurable...
What really bother me though, is those people who think it is perfectly acceptable to go way beyond the maximum tire pressure listed on the sidewall. That is simply dangerous.
I have over 1 million miles on various 32 & 44psi tires inflated to 50-60psi on all my vehicles.
In the last 17 years I have had 0 blowouts on my vehicle (not including trailers or other peoples cars)
and 1 accident when I was moving below 5mph and had the rear brake lines burst, luckily no damage there.
I did have a 15 year old set of desert dog tires fail on my suburban once but they didn't blow, a portion of the tread came loose and I limped into town, those were 30k miles cheap tires and had over 100k on the clock at that point.
The key to living with high pressure is
1. Adjust pressure if you are approaching REALLY BAD roads or REALLY bad conditions.
2. Drive 55mph or lower
3. Pay attention to the road/obstacles and other people.
4. Accept that you may need to replace suspension components more often (not really any different than the wheel hugger ultra thin deuchbag tires)
Racers typically run 70psi+ pressures, handling is generally improved by higher pressures to about 50psi assuming your suspension is decent and not failing. Dry pavement traction is usually improved, wet may be improved as well because of the reduction of the likely hood of hydroplaning.
My antique EV has 60psi rated tires and I would never run them at any other pressure (maybe 70psi if I don't feel like filling as often)
Am I taking a risk? Yes!
Do I care? Nope... I rather get 50mpg with a 37mpg rated cobalt.
