Understanding military trailer tire pressure

On the top, or inside, of the wheel well for each military vehicle and trailer is stamped “TP” and a number. Here is what it means and what you need to know about tire pressure in military tactical trailers and vehicles.

The “TP” you see stands for tire pressure. The number after the TP is the recommended pressure. It’s that simple. Before and after any trip, visually check for underinflated and unserviceable tires. Check tires for leaks, cuts, gouges, cracks, and bulges. Remove all penetrating objects.

M1101/2 Tire Recommendations

It’s recommended that your M1101/M1102 tires be set to 17 PSI +/- 2 psi. If they have run-flat inserts you can get away with no pressure for about 60 miles depending on the load. We’ve inflated the standard military trailer tires up to 45 psi., but the ride gets a little bouncy. On any tire, you can inflate them up to 10% below the max stated PSI on the tire. Deflate the tire if you need a lower or less bouncy ride.

Always use a tire inflation cage for inflation purposes. Stand on one side of the cage during inflation, never directly in front. Keep hands out of the cage during inflation. Inflate assembly to recommended pressure using a clip-on air chuck Do not exceed 50 psi (345 kPa) cold inflation pressure Failure to follow these instructions may result in injury or death.

Extreme Conditions

Ensure that tires are properly inflated. Tires may freeze to the ground or have flat spots if underinflated. Do not park the trailer in sunlight for long periods of time. Heat and sunlight shorten tire life. Shelter or cover trailer to provide adequate protection.

If necessary, reduce tire pressure when driving over loose sand. When reduced tire pressure is no longer necessary, or when tactical situation permits, return tires to normal pressure. Use extreme caution when operating in rocky terrain. Ensure that tires are fully inflated to minimize damage to tires and tubes

TireBoss Pressure Control

One cool system for military vehicles, but not trailers, is the TIREBOSS™. The TIREBOSS™ Tire Pressure Control system is a COTS computerized device, operated from the cab, allowing the driver to safely change tire pressures while the vehicle is moving.

TIREBOSS™ provides exceptional traction and flotation, reduced rutting, less road damage, and improved access to work sites. It is a proven technology for trucks operating in the sand or mud and also provides many cost-saving advantages.

The systems are supplied as a retrofit system and can be adapted to all types of vehicle and axle configurations. The systems are also supplied through various OEM’s at factory offline assembly facilities and through dealers. A comprehensive support network is established in numerous countries around the world.

Special wheel end components have been developed for severe use and military applications including wheel end protection kits and automatic lock valves. The in-cab controller is also Blackout Mode capable and electronics can operate either 12V or 24V. The systems also meet several EMC compliance criteria for Radiated Emissions, Radiated Susceptibility and have passed ESD testing.

Learn more here.