What should the tire pressure be on a Ford Model T?
Most Model T tires should be inflated cold to roughly 50–60 psi, with front tires typically around 40–50 psi and rear tires around 50–60 psi. Exact figures depend on tire size, load, and whether you’re using original bias-ply tires or modern reproductions.
Historical guidance and practical ranges
In the Model T era, there was no single universal specification. Pressures were set based on tire size and load, and drivers adjusted to road conditions. Today’s restorers and enthusiasts generally target a cold inflation band in the 50–60 psi range for stock-size tires, with the front tire pressures often a touch lower than the rear to accommodate the heavier rear axle on many configurations.
- Front tires (stock size, 30 x 3 1/2 or similar): 40–50 psi
- Rear tires (stock size, 30 x 3 1/2 or similar): 50–60 psi
The ranges above reflect cold inflation and may vary with tire construction (original bias-ply vs. modern reproduction), rim type, and overall load. When in doubt, start at the lower end and adjust within the specified range while monitoring ride feel and handling.
Modern tires, loads and safety considerations
If you’re using modern reproduction tires or alternate sizes, follow the tire manufacturer’s maximum rating and adjust within a safe window. Load, speed, and road conditions influence the ideal pressure, and you should never exceed the tire’s rated maximum.
- Check the tire sidewall for the maximum pressure and stay within that limit.
- Inflate when the tires are cold to get an accurate reading.
- Increase pressure within the recommended range if the car is loaded with passengers or luggage, or if you’re planning highway driving.
- Use a reliable gauge and inflate consistently on both sides of the axle for even wear and predictable handling.
These guidelines help maintain safe handling and a vintage driving feel while protecting the tires from excessive wear or heat buildup.
How to check and maintain correct pressure
Keeping the Model T’s tires properly inflated is part of routine maintenance and safe operation. Follow these steps to ensure accuracy and consistency.
- Park on level ground and let the tires come to a true cold state (no driving for several hours).
- Use a reliable tire gauge to measure pressure on all tires.
- Consult the tire sidewall for the maximum PSI and determine your target pressure within the recommended range (front lower, rear higher if appropriate).
- Add or release air to reach the target pressure on each tire, repeating the check to confirm accuracy.
- Recheck after a short test drive, as tires can heat up and gain pressure.
Consistency in checking and balancing pressure across all tires ensures safer handling and preserves the Model T’s unique ride quality.
Summary
For a traditional Ford Model T with stock-style tires, aim for roughly 50–60 psi when cold, with about 40–50 psi on the front and 50–60 psi on the rear. If you’re using modern reproduction tires or different sizes, stay within the tire maker’s maximum rating and adjust based on load and driving conditions. Always check pressure when tires are cold, use a reliable gauge, and maintain consistency across all four tires to preserve safety and vintage driving characteristics.
Is 40 PSI too high for a van?
Large vehicles like utes, vans, trucks, and 4x4s often require even higher tyre pressures due to their heavier loads and towing capacities. The recommended range for these vehicles can exceed 45 PSI.
What is the tyre pressure for a Ford Model T?
Tires were pneumatic clincher type, 30 in (762 mm) in diameter, 3.5 in (89 mm) wide in the rear, 3 in (76 mm) in the front. Clinchers needed much higher pressure than today's tires, typically 60 psi (410 kPa), to prevent them from leaving the rim at speed.
What is the tire pressure for a Model T?
Tire pressure for a Model T varies by tire size, but early 30x3 1/2 clincher tires require high pressure, typically 55 to 60 PSI, to stay on the rim. Later 21-inch balloon tires (like the 4.50x21) need significantly less, around 30 to 35 PSI.
| Tire Size | Recommended Pressure |
|---|---|
| 30x3 and 30x3 1/2 (early clinchers) | 55–60 PSI |
| 4.50x21 (later balloon tires) | 30–35 PSI |
| 6.00x20 (Model T trucks) | 60 PSI |
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_IMwladTdB52vkdUP0ZaR0Qo_113';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();
What is the tire pressure for a 1926 Model T?
Ford Model T Tire Pressures
For spoked wire wheels that fit 21" tires we suggest a pressure of 30 PSI. For a model T Ford truck on 6.00 X 20 tires fitted on 20” straight-sided wheels we suggest a pressure of 60 PSI.
