How to Keep Tire Gauge in Good Working Order

Choose pressure range
You should select a tire gauge so the typical pressure you will be testing is in the middle of the gauge span.

Example: for a typical car tire that runs at 32 psi you would select a 60 psi tire gauge and for a light truck tire that runs at 50 psi a 100 psi tire gauge. When selecting a tire gauge for a car, don't forget your spare! Many compact spare tires have a higher pressure requirement than a typical car tire (some as high as 80psi). Select your tire gauge(s) accordingly.

Over pressurization will damage a gauge!
Never use a gauge on a tire unless you are certain that the tire's pressure does not exceed the gauge's maximum psi reading.

Be sure not to over pressurize the tire gauge. This is especially important when using low pressure tire gauges. Also, many compact spare tires have a higher pressure requirement than a typical car tire (some as high as 80psi). If pressure is unknown or may be greater than the pressure range of the gauge, use a tire gauge with a higher pressure range first. Over pressurization will damage the gauge and void the warranty.

Severe jarring or dropping the tire gauge can affect the calibration. Using a rubber gauge guard can help protect the gauge. Also, avoid putting tire gauges in a trunk or toolbox with heavy items.

Use valve caps on your tire valves to help keep dirt out. Dirt from tire valves can accumulate in the tire gauge check assembly.

Checked tire pressure
Tires can lose 1 psi per month under normal conditions. Tires also can lose 1 psi for every 10°F temperature drop.

Check tire pressure at least once a month and before going on a long trip. Also, don't forget to check the spare tire to ensure that it's properly inflated and ready if needed.

Air pressure should be checked when tires are cold. Inflation pressure can increase several pounds during a long trip in hot weather.

When checking tire pressure, also inspect tires for uneven tread wear, cracks, foreign objects, or other signs of wear or damage. All tire valves should have valve caps.

Check the air pressure with your own gauge. Some air pressure towers at service stations are inaccurate because of exposure and abuse. Also, do not check pressure by just looking at the tire. A tire can be under inflated by 10 pounds and not appear to be low.
Tire Gauge
Manufacturer & exporter of tire pressure gauge, inflator tire gauge and digital gauge in China.

By zhao jiansong
Published: 6/26/2008
 
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