Tire inflation
 

Hello. I drive an 85 Ford Ranger and I was wondering what would be the recommended amount to inflate my tires to? I have them at 44 right now, but want to most fuel economy from them. Any suggestions?

What is the maximum pressure stated on the sidewall of your tires?

44 psi(?)

for safety I prefer on my fwd car less air in the front steering tires and more in the back non steering tires, thats me though
31-32 front
34-38 back

rwd is different though

In my 3000 pound VW with 195/65-15 tires, 51psi provides crisp, sure handling with decent ride. Your Ranger probably weighs about the same, if it's a 2WD 5 speed 4 cylinder regular cab. Your tires are probably 205/70-15, I'm guessing? If so, 44 would probably be about perfect, if the ride and handling are ok. You may need less in the rear.

I bet your tires are rated for a maximum of 44 and you should not exceed that anyway.

My full size pickup wears E-rated tires, good for 80psi. I can run 80 in the front but not much more than 70 in the rear.

Comfort doesn't suffer from my increased inflation in any of my vehicles. Handling, durability, and wear are significantly improved for me in addition to fuel savings. YMMV.

If you're already running the tires at the max sidewall pressure, its not recommended that you put that much more in them. That being said, the sidewall pressure for my Buick's tires is 35, but the tires wear even at 40 so that's where I keep them. That's the most important thing. If you cause abnormal wear, and have to prematurely replace your tires, any fuel savings you get will be more than made up for with increased tire replacements.

OK, thanks for the info everyone!

agreed, had 38psi on the same depth tread on my back wheels for like 30k