Did you know that tires should be inflated to the load pressure, not the maximum pressure? Inflating tires beyond the load pressure can potentially cause steering problems and reduce braking efficiency.

To determine the required load pressure, weigh each axle of the apparatus when it is loaded with the normal number of personnel, all equipment and a full tank of water. Divide the weight on each axle by the number of tires on that axle. Use the tire manufacturer's load/inflation chartto determine the pressure required for the load on the tire. In some cases, theload pressure may be as much as 10-20psi lower than the maximum pressure molded into the tire sidewall.

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This feature offers a variety of short tips and facts about apparatus maintenance and testing. Look for it every month. Submissions of 150words or less are welcome from our readers, subject to editing. Send them to In Service Senior Editor Chris Cavette at cavettes@ix.netcom.com.