The influence of tire-in-use factors (inflation pressure, replacement mixes, and wear) on the steering and braking response of automobiles is examined through analysis, simulation, laboratory and over-the-road tire testing, and vehicle testing. Results for a 1971 Mustang and a 1973 Buick station wagon illustrate the influence of tire-in-use factors on (a) the open-loop braking and/or turning performance in drastic maneuvers on wet and dry surfaces, and (b) the understeer/oversteer factor for maneuvers involving lateral accelerations below 0.3 g. The investigation shows that differences in tire mechanical properties between the front and rear wheels (as caused by tire-in-use factors) can cause significant and potentially dangerous changes in limit response and from the stability and control characteristics intended by the vehicle manufacturer. The report recommends that (1) inspection limits for inflation pressure be within + or - 1 psi of the manufacturer's recommended level, (2) minimum tread-groove depth exceed 2/32 in., and (3) further research be conducted to develop a cost-effective means for indicating the lateral force characteristics of a tire.
Vehicle in Use Limit Performance and Tire Factors. The Tire in Use
1975
230 pages
Report
No indication
English
Road Transportation , Automobile tires , Dynamic structural analysis , Steering , Braking , Stiffness , Maneuverability , Dynamic response , Computerized simulation , Road tests , Stability , Control , Skid resistance , Cornering maneuvers , Road curves , Wet pavements , Motor vehicles(1971 models) , Motor vehicles(1973 models) , Buick Century station wagons , Ford Mustang automobiles