We tend to think that a “stronger” tire can support a greater load but actually, it is the tire’s capacity to hold more air that makes it able to carry heavier loads.

In fact, it is the air that carries the load and the tire acts as the vessel.

What is the difference between driving on low pressure tires and driving overloaded?

There is no difference in terms of consequences!

 

Here are a few examples of issues that might result from these two behaviors and tips to prevent them.

Please note that this list is only a quick guide and a shop inspection is still recommended.

 

1-Signs of “stretch marks” inside the tire.

This can be accompanied by rubber dust caused by surface friction.

Consequence: Cables flexed beyond their capacity could break and cause an explosion. A shop inspection will be required and preventive measures should be taken during installation.

 

 

 

2-Exterior cracks or bead wear

Consequence: driving on overloaded tires causes friction between the base of the sidewall and the wheel, which may lead to wear or cracks.

 

 

 

 

3-Heat problem that can result in the separation of the belts and the deformation or separation of the tire body.

Consequence: This might result in the tire destruction because the more overloaded the sidewalls of the tire, the more the internal heat of the tire increases.

 

The LanOTR team