Index Homepage

Question: What does the load index mean on tyres?

(Posted by: accydm on 2007-07-07 12:59:24)

Posted by: Mark F on 2007-07-07, 14:58:08

The load index expresses the maximum load (weight) the tire (or tyre, sorry, I'm on the other side of the pond) can carry. It is expressed as a 2 or 3 digit number as part of the tire size description on the sidewall. A 205/ 55R16 91H tire (91 being the Load Index) carries a maximum load of 1,356 lb at 36 psi and above. Don't try to make any sense out of how 91 = 1,356. The maximum load information will be molded into the sidewall of the tire. Below 36 psi the load carrying capacity is reduced and there are "Load and Inflation Tables " that tell what the load is the tire can carry at specific pressures. That same tire at 30 psi for example carries 1,179 lb. Hope this helps.

Posted by: spinx on 2007-07-07, 13:14:08

Load is weight i think it is given in kg??? have to check tho be back at ya

Posted by: dadseimaj on 2007-07-08, 03:16:17

In Basic terms it is the maximum load that the tyre is permitted to carry. The Higher the number the greater the load. For example an Astra would run on a 195 65 15 91T And a transit might run on 195 65 95 T In this case the 95 would specify that is a reinforced tyre. A word to the wise.... NEVER fit tyres of a lower load and speed rating than the recommended otherwise you will fail your MOT, Invalidate your insurance or worse, have a tyre failure