Tyre Pressures

Northern Advocate, 16 April 1938, Page 15

Tyre Pressures

It is necessary to maintain the tyro pressures at the proper figure at all times for two reasons. The first is to obtain the maximum amount of mileage from the tyres. If run for long periods in an under* inflated condition the excessive flexing of the carcases will tend to break the layers of cords, and the tyres will gradually deteriorate and become dangerous, long before the • treads have worn down. The second reason is closely related to the efficiency of the brakes. If either the front or rear pair of tyres arc running at uneven pressures, particularly the front ones, then if the brakes are applied hard, the car will tend to swing to the side of the underinflated tyre. For even braking, therefore, it is vital that each pair of tyres be running at an even pressure. In order to make sure of even pressure secure a gauge that is reasonably accurate, and use it only. Running on soft tyres definitely increases petrol consumption, because the rolling resistance is increased by the greater area of soft, spongy rubber in contact with the ground, and, therefore, greater power is required to propel the car. Other unpleasant characteristics arising from soft tyres are hard steering, and an increased tendency-to roll on corners.