When I use my tire pressure gauge, it takes a long time to stabilize on an actual reading. I’ve gotten in the habit of just putting the gauge on and reading it quickly so at least I’m consistent, but this doesn’t give an accurate reading, just a consistent one.
Is this common among tire pressure gauges, or maybe it’s because the kart tire is relatively low volume? I’m hoping that the solution isn’t to spend $300 on a Prisma - using a longacre analog gauge right now.
All gauges are really just a consistent way of measuring as they don’t all measure the same. Some can be a couple psi different than another. Using one gauge and learning what pressures work for you on that gauge are all that really matters.
I figured, but is it normal for it to take ~30 seconds for the pressure reading to stabilize?
I find this issue to be more related to the tires coming up to equilibrium pressure. It’s possible you have a gauge that is very slow, but I’ve experience the same “creep” with all sorts of gauges. The solution is to generally let the tires sit, always measuring under the same conditions (for me shade is easiest). If it’s taking longer than 5 seconds per tire then I would try another gauge.
Thanks. If you like your pressure gauge, which one do you have?
Buying a Prisma will not solve the problem, because I have one and it still takes several seconds for the pressure to stabilize. I leave it on there for about 10 seconds to get a true read.
I have the big Vega tire gauge, which I’m not even sure is made any longer. This sucker will be going to the grave with me lol
I use the digital longacre currently
I think Ricky hit it spot on. The number is just a reference, as long as you use the same gauge and same method every time you will hone in on what PSI works for your set up.
Maybe wouldn’t be a bad idea to back to back your gauge vs a known good gauge on a cold tire just to make sure yours isn’t completely out in left field.
I would liken this situation to doing your sniper alignment on the stand vs what it actually is on the ground with driver, it’s pretty different, but the readings on the stand are the reference we always use even though it’s not what’s actually happening on track.
Understood, and just to be clear I’m not looking to solve a handling problem attributed to an inaccurate tire pressure reading, just pointing out that it’s annoying to have to work around it. Seems like I should be able to put the pressure gauge on the tire and just get an accurate reading quickly.
I had one of these and was “relieved” of it at the track. Still salty about it 
I think it’s the design of your gauge @DIG78x .
I have a fluid (glycerine)- filled gauge, and it takes quite a while to stabilise the pressure. I have put that down to the fluid damping the diaphragm as intended.
Compared to my other non-filled gauge,that jumps straight to the answer.
It’s provides good stable results, but can be a bit frustrating when trying to grab a quick pressure on hot tyres at the track.
VEGA MANOMETER…
not for sissies!