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Prius Newb Arises!

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Main Forum' started by Sparkybunz, Nov 23, 2010.

  1. Former Member 68813

    Former Member 68813 Senior Member

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    If you actually read my post you would notice that I use 40 PSI and have NO problems with irregular wear.
    I also gave you a story of my friend who had 50+ PSI in his tires (radial) and had center wear in his light subcompact car.
    But, hey, you know better, so why am I wasting my time?
     
  2. Former Member 68813

    Former Member 68813 Senior Member

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    We were talking about passenger tires my friend.
    Over and out.
     
  3. fuzzy1

    fuzzy1 Senior Member

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    Plenty of readers on both these forums have run much greater distances at higher pressures without experiencing meaningful center wear. I thought I could see some slight center wear in a few of the provided photos, but they had already gone far beyond any tires I had run and worn out at placard pressures.
     
  4. Former Member 68813

    Former Member 68813 Senior Member

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    LOL! So, even you observed it, but still defended the dogma on no center wear.

    Like I said before, higher tire pressure will slow overall tire wear. Thus, the marginally increased center wear (if any) will be offset by increased tire life from higher pressure.
     
  5. fuzzy1

    fuzzy1 Senior Member

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    You claimed that such center wear -- which I only imagined in photos, contrary to the statements of the photo-takers -- occurs in tires 'up to the allowed max pressure posted on tire'. The photos I saw were of tires run substantially above, not at or below, sidewall max.

    Personally, I don't overinflate my tires at all. I also refuse to characterize any pressure less than the required minimum pressure for the tire's rated maximum load as 'overinflated'.
     
  6. Former Member 68813

    Former Member 68813 Senior Member

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    It's a possibility and will not always happen. I clearly stated that.
    Same with road hazard part.
    I do agree that I should not have used the word "overinflating" as I did not mean it in a pejorative sense.

    "minimum pressure for the tire's rated maximum load" is 35 PSI for regular passenger tires in USA.
     
  7. fuzzy1

    fuzzy1 Senior Member

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    Different tires sets on different passenger cars in my household have different labeling. One particular tire set makes it clear that when operated at its full rated load, cold inflation pressure must be 44 psi. 35 psi isn't sufficient.

    My engineering interpration is that when operated at lower pressures (this household's car placards recommend 26, 32, and 35/33), maximum load must be derated. Which they are, as all the vehicle load ratings are significantly below the tire load ratings.

    A review of all the other household tires found that while none were as unambiguous in their labeling, none were inconsistent with this interpretation.

    Upon finding that this sidewall maximum pressure rating was also the minimum pressure requirement under a certain operating condition, I ceased portraying lower pressures as 'overinflated'.

    And most importantly here in the rainy Pacific NorthWet, higher pressures improve hydroplaning resistance. That 26 psi car scared me until pressure was boosted.
     
  8. Sparkybunz

    Sparkybunz 1st Year Owner

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    Hey all,

    Wow... So I'm seeing a LOT of interest in the the tire pressure issue. That's bizzare and awesome all in the same.

    Thanks to everyone for the input - it is truly insightful.

    Just finished a 210 mile trip and averaged 57MPG so I've got to admit I'm very impressed with the vehicle.

    My only issue is that I wish I'd gone up to the Solar Roof package... It would be nice to see some additional battery life after it's been sitting for a while. But that is that.

    Thanks again!

    Regards,
     
  9. designeraccd

    designeraccd New Member

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    With air temps dropping (lo 20sF this a.m. ) my mileage is going down, too...upper 40s average now versus lo to mid 50s when in 50-60F range on my new engine.

    I run the recommended-IIRC-35F/33R and it works fine for me given the bumpy "goat trails" that pass for roads around here.

    I only use the PWR mode as for me, in the ECO mode, the feeling of stepping into a wet sponge just doesn't get it and I found my mileage dropped by @ 1.5mpg. In the PWR mode the car "feels" like it has a power train that is capable of staying with traffic....which I do. As I get better mpg with this little car than I have with most of my motorcycles, including my Suzuki DR 650 SINGLE; I'm quite satisfied with running with traffic but getting the mileage she does. Intruiging, sophisticated package of engineering and Industrial Design at a tolerable price, unlike the $41K GM Volt. DFO :D