Tyre Load Index

[Eddieb]

Very close to getting 4 new tyres for my MH. My current tyres load index is 116 but the new cross climates that I want come in two sizes 116 and 118. Should I go for the 118 ? which are a little bit more expensive.

 

[DDJC]

Very close to getting 4 new tyres for my MH. My current tyres load index is 116 but the new cross climates that I want come in two sizes 116 and 118. Should I go for the 118 ? which are a little bit more expensive.

The first answer is that if cost is your primary consideration, it depends on whether you axle weight make it worth your while. If you have a 3500kg bus, it probably isn't worth your while because the axle weights will be a lower weight than the tyres.

Second answer, is I would always go for the higher LI, because it means that the tyre is stronger and the sidewall is less likely to fail under speed. However brand is also a factor. I would take Bridgestone 116 over Lang Yingting* 118, every time.

(* other made up tyre brands are available)

 

[tacr2man]

Usually higher load index can carry same load at lower pressure

 

[Guigsy]

Usually higher load index can carry same load at lower pressure

But they tend to have more ply layers in the tyres, making them heavier and more stiff, offsetting the benefit of lower pressure.

 

[Lenny HB]

Always wise to have a load margin 10% over the max axle rating.

^{_{Subscribers  do not see these advertisements}}

 

[Guigsy]

Always wise to have a load margin 10% over the max axle rating.

I'd argue that that's engineered into the tyre.

 

[Lenny HB]

I'd argue that that's engineered into the tyre.

Recommended on motorhomes when using van tyres as you are always running with max load.

 

[Guigsy]

Recommended on motorhomes when using van tyres as you are always running with max load.

The only manufacturer recommendation I've seen is to run camper tyres.

A van tyre has to cope with max load. What difference does it make it's not all the time? It either manages it without failing or it doesn't. There are plenty of vans that run at full load pretty much all the time.