Cool/Cold Weather Travel

K-Star · 10-16-2010, 12:17 PM

Here is a question that has always been in the back of my mind.

If I set my tire pressures on my trailer/truck on a (for argument sake) 60 degree day. A week later when I hit the road, the temperature is 40 degrees. Do I need to re-adjust the tire pressure again based on it being 40 degrees, or will it still be good?

This has been nagging me in the back of my mind for a long time.

Goldwingtiny · 10-16-2010, 03:41 PM

No, you don't need to re-adjust because of the 20 degree drop in temperture but, checking your tires once a week is never a bad idea.

**Route 66** · 10-16-2010, 03:45 PM

I disagree.

The temperature drop will cause a drop in pressure and you should always check tire pressures before hitting the road.

DriVer · 10-16-2010, 03:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by K-Star

This has been nagging me in the back of my mind for a long time.

John, We missed not having you as an original attendee at the 10th Anniversary Reunion Rally this past week in Myrtle Beach. We had a good time.

In regard to your question, if you depart a cold climate for a warmer climate to stay you should adjust your tire pressures once you arrive at your destination especially if you are considering staying in that place for an extended stay. If you are traveling in warmer weather states for a few weeks, I would re-check my pressures cold and make the adjustments.

If you have set your pressures on a warm day, the pressure will be less on a colder day if you check them cold. Adjust your pressures as appropriate for the immediate need.

Ray,IN · 10-18-2010, 08:30 PM

There is no need to over-think this or you'll be constantly adjusting your tire pressure. Inflate tires to your desired pressure the day before you hit the road and sleep well.
I have duly noted my tire pressures from my TPMS on cool and hot days. The cold pressures seems to rise to virtually the same pressures after driving for an hour or longer on those cool/hot days.
To me this means there is the same amount(mass) of air in the tires on both days, and when heated by driving they return to previous volume of air. The cool air just caused it to contract more than the warm day.