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It can be very confusing to know which tires you need to get if you don’t understand the ratings system that is used. How do you know what a P275/75/R15 tire is?

The codes that are used to mark the various tire ratings are defined as listed below, which will help you to know which size and type you need regardless of the style or brand.

* Tire Type Most people understand that there are different kinds of tires for different kinds of cars. LT stands for light truck while P stands for passenger. * Tire Width Depending upon how wide your tires are, they will alter the way your car or truck handles and how efficiently it uses fuel, as well as other things. The ratings give the tire width in millimeters as a standard form of measurement, with approximately 25.4 millimeters making up one inch. The following example is around 10.8″ in width. The Aspect Ratio of Tires The term “aspect ratio” is used to measure the tire’s height from the mount to the tread and is shown as a ratio that is compared to the width of the tire. This example shows a tire height that is 75% of the width. The Construction of Tires Never underestimate the importance of the type of construction of your tires. R = radial construction, which means the tire is reinforced to give it strength and a longer life. The Rim Diameter of Tires In this case the diameter refers to the size of the wheel. It is essential that you buy tires that are the same diameter as your vehicle’s wheels. The following example has tires with a diameter of 15.

You can use this information to determine that a P275/75/R15 tire is a passenger tire, it is 275 millimeters in width, it has an aspect ratio of 75, it is a radial tire, and it will fit a 15-inch wheel.

* Information on Speed Ratings There are also speed ratings for today’s tires, beginning at around 100 miles per hour on up. Considering the speed limit stays under 75mph you shouldn’t worry too much about the speed rating of your tire. However, specialty cars such as sports vehicles, might need tires that are rated much higher than standard models.

It’s also important to consider the Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) rating, which you can find on tire’s inner sidewell. This rating is measured via a standardized testing system that rates the performance of the tire in relation to temperature resistance, traction and wear and tear on the tread. The NHTSA or U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sets these ratings, which are based upon these standards of requirements and control testings.

When you have an understanding of how tires are rated and measured, it will help you when you are looking at new tires for purchase with regard to the length that the tread should last under regular, daily driving; the temperature resistance in relation to build-up or heat dissipation; and traction, which is tested to compare durability in relation to braking on various surface types.

Daniel Akinson is a former mechanic and self-proclaimed gear-head. To learn more about atv tires and 33 Inch Tires be sure to visit us at MudKingTires.

Feb282011

Tags: ATVs, autos, cars, off road, tires, Trucks

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