Correct Inflation?
01-04-07, 08:26 PM
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RX330: Under Inflation Wear... What Tire Pressure Works for You?
2004 RX330 2wd...
The OEM Goodyears (235/55R18) were kept inflated at 32 psi but showed under inflation (inside and outside) tread wear and had to be replaced at 28,000 miles. I wasn't happy with that, nor were many others, as I have read on these and other Lexus forum posts. I wish I had been looking for abnormal wear sooner.
I replaced OEMs with a set of Bridgestone Dueller H/L Alenzas. From my research, others thought these were really good tires. That was 2,500 miles ago. I have not regreted my purchasing decision for one moment. These tires are excellent, but pricey.
The tire shop mounted them, inflated to 36 psi. I wasn't asked what pressure to use (not that I have an expert opinion on the matter). Did they know something I didn't? I soon discovered that, at 36 psi, I could really feel the bumps in the road. I reduced the pressure back to 32 psi and the ride became better, like the OEMs. Call me paranoid, but after 2,500 miles I'm wondering if I can see the edges of the tread beginning to wear.
My dilemma is this: What is the best inflation pressure to use? I don't want to ruin a set of expensive tires. With the correct inflation pressure (and regular alignment) these tires should last their rated 65,000 miles. Lexus said to use 32 psi (on the Goodyears), but this proved to be wrong.
Regardless of how firm a ride may result, what inflation pressure do you think I should use?
The OEM Goodyears (235/55R18) were kept inflated at 32 psi but showed under inflation (inside and outside) tread wear and had to be replaced at 28,000 miles. I wasn't happy with that, nor were many others, as I have read on these and other Lexus forum posts. I wish I had been looking for abnormal wear sooner.
I replaced OEMs with a set of Bridgestone Dueller H/L Alenzas. From my research, others thought these were really good tires. That was 2,500 miles ago. I have not regreted my purchasing decision for one moment. These tires are excellent, but pricey.
The tire shop mounted them, inflated to 36 psi. I wasn't asked what pressure to use (not that I have an expert opinion on the matter). Did they know something I didn't? I soon discovered that, at 36 psi, I could really feel the bumps in the road. I reduced the pressure back to 32 psi and the ride became better, like the OEMs. Call me paranoid, but after 2,500 miles I'm wondering if I can see the edges of the tread beginning to wear.
My dilemma is this: What is the best inflation pressure to use? I don't want to ruin a set of expensive tires. With the correct inflation pressure (and regular alignment) these tires should last their rated 65,000 miles. Lexus said to use 32 psi (on the Goodyears), but this proved to be wrong.
Regardless of how firm a ride may result, what inflation pressure do you think I should use?
Last edited by JMorton; 01-07-07 at 10:43 AM. Reason: No Reponse
01-27-07, 11:32 AM
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I also have an RX330 in need of replacement..
Expensive.. ??
try looking the OEM Michelins.. last I checked locally, they were about
200 each..
Tire Pressure..
I always run about 32-33 which gives a good ride and (IMHO) and good
tread wear..
I have 41K on my RX330 and have the Michelins.. they have performed
very well, but to me they look a bit *small*.
Most all of my driving is highway.. so YMMV...
I just priced the Bridgestones, they are about 770 mounted and balanced at our local Tires Plus..
hth
tk
Expensive.. ??
try looking the OEM Michelins.. last I checked locally, they were about
200 each..
Tire Pressure..
I always run about 32-33 which gives a good ride and (IMHO) and good
tread wear..
I have 41K on my RX330 and have the Michelins.. they have performed
very well, but to me they look a bit *small*.
Most all of my driving is highway.. so YMMV...
I just priced the Bridgestones, they are about 770 mounted and balanced at our local Tires Plus..
hth
tk
01-29-07, 05:09 PM
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You got good mileage on the Michelins! My OEMs were Goodyear. Don't know why the difference, but Michelins for the RX330 seem to wear better, from what I've read on this and other posts.
The point is, good tires are too expensive to ignore inflation pressure. Your suggestion sounds good. I'll stick with 32 psi and keep a close eye on tread wear.
The rough ride from higher inflation seems so demeaning to a LEXUS. My wife got a (lowly) Acura and I don't want her taking pot shots about the ride I get in my Lexus!
You had a good experience with the Michelins. You would have to think long and hard before switching to another tire.
The point is, good tires are too expensive to ignore inflation pressure. Your suggestion sounds good. I'll stick with 32 psi and keep a close eye on tread wear.
The rough ride from higher inflation seems so demeaning to a LEXUS. My wife got a (lowly) Acura and I don't want her taking pot shots about the ride I get in my Lexus!
You had a good experience with the Michelins. You would have to think long and hard before switching to another tire.
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