I have the factory original stock Michelin LT tires on my truck with the stock wheels, they way I bought the truck this summer with 26K on the rig. Tires are 265/75 -16's I believe and look to be in good shape. What tire pressures should I be running at for best fuel economy? I want to keep an eye on this since things like tire pressures are neglected often fairly easily and can make difference in increasing mpg.

 

maximum recomended pressure usually gives best mpg,but a rougher ride and sometimes causes uneven wear on a vehicle thats not loaded heavy often

 

Just set your psi to where you get even traction all across the width. Max psi doesn't always give best mpg. It's about the same actually.

 

what psi is most effective that you guys have noticed ...45? 65? something else?

thanks...I know that the recommended psi ratings are on the door panel, but I trust user espereince from real world folks much more.

 

I've found best mileage for 265s running 65psi front and 55 rear when empty.

If you have a load on the back that's worth considering, air the rears up closer to 80psi.

The operating pressures on the door panel are the MAX pressures, or pressures at maximum load. NOT the recommended pressures!

The recommended pressures were in an insert in your owner's manual packet. That insert says 45F/40R, but add 10psi to each for extended hwy operation. It also alludes to load conditions. For max GVWR, you should be at 65F/80R. Notice that the front never goes over 65psi, even at full load. This is because at full load the rears will have more load on them.

jh

 

thanks Hohn for another excellent reply. Like all of your posts & replies that I've seen...very helpful, well thought out, and presented in an insightful manner. You sir are truly an asset on DTR!