Tires: Upgraded to LT tire, pressure question?, 2007 toyota 4runner, toyota 4runner


Question
I have a 2007 4Runner and have been working on making my truck more offroad capable.  Have lifted the truck with all aftermarket suspension and put on bigger tires (LT285/75/16 D).

Reading other posts it seems I need to have a higher pressure in my tires than I currently have.  Using the chalk method to determine even tire wear I have seen 38psi in the front and 30 in the back give the even wear.

Do I need to bump them up more?  I'm not carrying heavy things nor towing.  Obviously will be airing down for offroad and got the D load tires for the sidewall protection and the wider footprint.  Am I mistaken in my assumption for the proper inflation?

Answer
Dave,

If you've read my answers, you'll know I am not a fan of replacing P type tires with LT type tires.  But according to Tire Guides, a 2007 Toyota 4Runner came with a variety of tire sizses.  Taking the worst one: P265/70R16 at 32 psi front and rear - then to get the same load carrying capacity, an LT285/75R16 should use 35 psi front and rear.

I am not a fan of the chalk method for determining the inflation pressure because not only do tires vary a little, but as a general rule, the drive tire tend to wear in the center giving a false reading.