Jeep Wrangler 1997 Manual - page 899
drops. Check tire pressure frequently when ambient
temperature varies widely.
Inflation pressures specified on the placards are
cold inflation pressure. The vehicle must sit for at
least 3 hours to obtained the correct cold inflation
pressure reading. Or driven less than one mile after
sitting for 3 hours. Tire inflation pressures may
increase from 2 to 6 pounds per square inch (psi)
during operation. Do not reduce this normal pressure
build-up.
WARNING: OVER
OR
UNDER
INFLATED
TIRES
CAN AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND TREAD
WEAR. THIS MAY CAUSE THE TIRE TO FAIL SUD-
DENLY, RESULTING IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CON-
TROL.
TIRE PRESSURE FOR HIGH SPEED OPERATION
Chrysler Corporation advocates driving at safe
speeds within posted speed limits. Where speed lim-
its allow the vehicle to be driven at high speeds, cor-
rect tire inflation pressure is very important. For
speeds up to and including 120 km/h (75 mph), tires
must be inflated to the pressures shown on the tire
placard. For continuous speeds in excess of 120 km/h
(75 mph), tires must be inflated to the maximum
pressure specified on the tire sidewall.
Vehicles loaded to the maximum capacity should
not be driven at continuous speeds above 75 mph
(120 km/h).
For emergency vehicles that are driven at speeds
over 90 mph (144 km/h), special high speed tires
must be used. Consult tire manufacturer for correct
inflation pressure recommendations.
REPLACEMENT TIRES
The original equipment tires provide a proper bal-
ance of many characteristics such as:
•
Ride
•
Noise
•
Handling
•
Durability
•
Tread life
•
Traction
•
Rolling resistance
•
Speed capability
It is recommend that tires equivalent to the origi-
nal equipment tires be used when replacement is
needed.
Failure to use equivalent replacement tires may
adversely affect the safety and handling of the vehi-
cle.
The use of oversize tires not listed in the specifica-
tion charts may cause interference with vehicle com-
ponents. Under extremes of suspension and steering
travel, interference with vehicle components may
cause tire damage.
WARNING: FAILURE TO EQUIP THE VEHICLE WITH
TIRES HAVING ADEQUATE SPEED CAPABILITY
CAN RESULT IN SUDDEN TIRE FAILURE.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
PRESSURE GAUGES
A quality air pressure gauge is recommended to
check tire pressure. After checking the air pressure,
replace valve cap finger tight.
TREAD WEAR INDICATORS
Tread wear indicators are molded into the bottom
of the tread grooves. When tread depth is 1.6 mm
(1/16 in.), the tread wear indicators will appear as a
13 mm (1/2 in.) band.
Tire replacement is necessary when indicators
appear in two or more grooves or if localized balding
occurs (Fig. 4).
TIRE WEAR PATTERNS
Under inflation will cause wear on the shoulders of
tire. Over inflation will cause wear at the center of
tire.
Excessive camber causes the tire to run at an
angle to the road. One side of tread is then worn
more than the other (Fig. 5).
Excessive toe-in or toe-out causes wear on the
tread edges and a feathered effect across the tread
(Fig. 5).
Fig. 4 Tread Wear Indicators
TJ
TIRES AND WHEELS
22 - 3
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)