Tyre pressure and spare wheel rating

[JandP]

We recently returned from our first outing in our "new" van (2003 Swift Celeste 18/4 MTPLM 1398Kg). Before we went I was advised by Swift that the correct tyre pressure is 60psi and this seems ok for the tyres which are Hankook (2ply polyester sidewalls 2ply polyester + 2ply steel tread) and are marked with a max pressure of 65psi. I assumed that the spare would be the same rating but it is a Nankang 1ply polyester sidewall and 1ply polyester + 2ply steel tread rated at max 1230lbs @ max 32psi. So the question is can the spare be used safely? Are caravan spares now like those on modern cars and only for emergencies and at reduced speed? There is nothing in the handbook about it and I intend to ring Swift tomorrow for clarification but I thought I would ask you guys first. By the way, how often do you check your spare wheel pressure? Mine had 15psi in it! Thanks Jim.

 

[Lutz]

You don't say what the load rating of both tyres, especially that of the Nankang, is so it is not possible to give a definitive answer. One would strongly suspect, however, that the Nankang is not an original equipment tyre.

 

[JandP]

Hi Lutz, the Hankooks are rated at max 1709lbs at max 65psi and the Nankang is max 123olbs at max 32psi. Jim.

 

[JandP]

Didnt bother to call Swift because the spare is clearly not original equipment. Called my local tyre dealer instead and he can supply 8ply commercial tyres for