2010 - Why do my tires always look like they need air?

[barrys]

I sold my '94 (which I loved) and bought a 2010 last October. The wheels are now 17's -- up from 16" and the spec tire pressure is 30 lbs. I inflate to that and the tires always look low. The pad that touches the ground is about 8+ inches long. I was just curious if this is a Ford spec change to make the ride and noise feel better or something like that.

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

Rangers have always been 30-35 psi. Your 2010 has TPMS right? Set them at 30 and forget them.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

If you are not running OEM spec tires you might have to adjust the tire pressure a little.

 

[barrys]

Hi Sasquatch_Ryda - long time... Hope all is well.

Tires are stock.

I just picked it up from the dealer. As part of their service they "check and inspect" pressure and write down what they set to and they filled to 32 instead of 30 from the sticker. Then I asked my service advisor about it (he's been at his job for 33 years) and he said he fills his trucks -- Ranger and F250 -- to 34. He did also concede that they "fill a little low" on the lot to make the truck feel nice for the test drive. And the new Ranger does ride a little hard anyway.

I think it's all just interesting. I'll try 34 at some point and keep track of wear patterns and feel.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

hmmm, I didn't know they finally decided to start putting 17's on Rangers... that took long enough.

 

[barrys]

Good catch. I lied...
The old truck at 14's and the new one has 15" wheels.
Perhaps just wishful thinking.

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

The dealer should still be setting the tires at the door sticker spec....not just whatever they feel like at the time. Ford put the stickers there for a reason.