Someone please edjabecate me on tire pressure...

Tractor Factor · May 1, 2010

I always thought the MAXIMUM INFLATION rating stamped on a tire meant what it said. My whole life I've treated it as gospel. Now, my BX25 manual says to inflate the front tires to 22 psi, but 25.4 psi with the front loader attached, even though the max rating on the tire itself says 22. My FEL is attached 100% of the time, so do I just always leave the pressure at 25.4? Till now I've kept it at 22 (which is how it came from the dealer). Does front tire pressure in relation to a load/FEL have an effect on the front axel?

And how come there's no corresponding pressure adjustment required for the backhoe or other load in the rear?

Inquiring minds want to know...

gwdixon · May 1, 2010

The maximum rating always has a fudge factor for safety. Since our tractor tires don't get that hot running at less than 15 mph (or so). There is no problem.

If your BX front tires squish when the FEL is loaded then a few more pounds of pressure is indicated. Some people don't need it since they only carry lighter materials in the FEL.

The few extra pounds will keep the tire's bead from separating from the rims under load when a turn is made. Not a pleasant thing to happen.

In the rear, the tires aren't turned for steering and run relatively straight. Breaking the bead is much more difficult under those circumstances.

The differences in pressures in your post are almost undistinguishable in actual use. It shouldn't be a worry or major concern.