Proper tire pressure is essential for the optimal performance, longevity, and ride quality of your golf cart tires . Below, we will outline how to correctly set the tire pressure for different types of golf cart tires, such as low profile golf cart tires, all terrain golf cart tires, 18x8.5-8 golf cart tires, and turf golf cart tires . We will also discuss why proper tire pressure is important for good ride quality (a smooth ride for you and your passengers), and how pressure affects tire life and handling. The Golf Cart Tire Supply have been the leading experts in golf cart wheels and tires for 10+ years, selling golf cart tires to hundreds of thousands of satisfied customers. So let us help you learn about golf cart tire pressure in 5-quick minutes below!
Importance of Proper Golf Cart Tire Pressure
Setting the correct tire pressure for your golf cart is vital for several reasons:
- Safety: Underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to poor handling, loss of traction, and even accidents.
- Tire Life: Proper tire pressure helps maximize the lifespan of your tires by reducing unnecessary extra wear-and-tear.
- Performance and Ride Quality: Correct tire pressure gives you the best ride quality, handling, and fuel efficiency. It also contributes to a smooth and comfortable ride (no one likes a wobbly cart)!
- Terrain Adaptability: Different terrains may require specific tire pressures to provide the best performance. For example, airing down your tires on sand (beach use) gives your cart a much larger contact patch with the ground, helping it to effectively "float" over than sand instead of sinking in.
How to Set Golf Cart Tire Pressure
Follow these four steps to set the correct tire pressure for your golf cart tires:
- Check your owner's manual or tire sidewall: The recommended tire pressure can usually be found in your golf cart's owner's manual or on the tire's sidewall.
- Use a reliable tire pressure gauge: Make sure to use a quality tire pressure gauge for accurate readings. We use the Milwaukee M12 Compact Inflator at our shop, which not only reads pressure but inflates your tires automatically as well!
- Adjust tire pressure: Inflate or deflate your tires according to the manufacturer (sidewall) recommended pressure. Remember that tire pressure can be affected by temperature changes, so check and adjust the pressure regularly as needed. We recommend every 2-4 weeks on average.
- Recheck tire pressure: After adjusting the pressure, recheck it with your tire gauge to ensure it is at the proper level. This might sound silly, but will save you from small leaks you may not have noticed.
Tire Pressure for Different Types of Golf Cart Tires
The best tire pressure for your golf cart may vary depending on the type of golf cart tires you have installed on your wheels. Here are some general guidelines:
- Low Profile Golf Cart Tires: These tires typically require higher pressure to ride smooth, usually between 20 and 25 PSI, for the best performance.
- All Terrain Golf Cart Tires: For these taller off-road golf cart tires, the recommended pressure is usually between 12 and 15 PSI, depending on the specific model and terrain conditions. Heavy terrain requires lower pressure (more grip), and smooth terrain requires higher pressure.
- 18x8.5-8 Golf Cart Tires: The standard tire pressure for these factory sized tires is around 22 PSI, but it can vary depending on the specific tire model and load capacity and tire brand.
- Turf Golf Cart Tires: Turf tires generally require a lower pressure than sawtooth golf cart tires, usually between 10 and 15 PSI for the best ride quality on grass
Summing It All Up
Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for the best ride quality, most safety and longest tire life for your golf cart tires. It ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, as well as optimal handling and charge (fuel) efficiency. By following the guidelines provided in this article and regularly checking your tire pressure, you will stay ahead of the game!
If you have any questions relating to your golf cart tires, please give our expert team a call today at 1-844-422-7884! We are always here to help you with all of your golf cart accessories and golf cart parts shopping needs.
Written: 4-4-2023
By: Alex Sturwold of the Golf Cart Expert Team