Radial-Ply Tires; Spare Tire–Temporary; Tire Inflation Pressures; Over Inflation Wear - Jeep Wrangler 1997 Manual

22 - 2 TIRES AND WHEELS
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)
Fig. 1 Tire Identification

RADIAL-PLY TIRES

Radial-ply tires improve handling, tread life, ride
quality and decrease rolling resistance.
Radial-ply tires must always be used in sets of
four. Under no circumstances should they be used on
the front only. They may be mixed with temporary
spare tires when necessary. A maximum speed of 50
MPH is recommended while a temporary spare is in
use.
Radial-ply tires have the same load-carrying capac-
ity as other types of tires of the same size. They also
use the same recommended inflation pressures.
The use of oversized tires, either in the front or
rear of the vehicle, can cause vehicle drive train fail-
ure. This could also cause inaccurate wheel speed
signals when the vehicle is equipped with Anti-Lock
Brakes.
The use of tires from different manufactures on the
same vehicle is NOT recommended. The proper tire
pressure should be maintained on all four tires. For
proper tire pressure refer to the Tire Inflation Pres-
sure Chart provided with the vehicle.
SPARE TIRE–TEMPORARY
The temporary spare tire is designed for emer-
gency use only. The original tire should be repaired
or replaced at the first opportunity and reinstall. Do
not exceed speeds of 50 MPH. Refer to Owner's Man-
ual for complete details.

TIRE INFLATION PRESSURES

Under inflation will cause rapid shoulder wear, tire
flexing, and possible tire failure (Fig. 2).
Fig. 2 Under Inflation Wear
Over inflation will cause rapid center wear and
loss of the tire's ability to cushion shocks (Fig. 3).
Fig. 3 Over Inflation Wear
Improper inflation can cause:
• Uneven wear patterns
• Reduced tread life
• Reduced fuel economy
• Unsatisfactory ride
• Vehicle drift
For proper tire pressure specification refer to the
Tire Inflation Pressure Chart provided with the vehi-
cle.
Tire pressures have been chosen to provide safe
operation, vehicle stability, and a smooth ride. Tire
pressure should be checked cold once a month. Tire
pressure decreases as the ambient temperature
TJ