Most vehicle and tire manufacturers recommend that no more than _____ ounces of balance weight be added to a wheel/tire assembly.

The recommendation for the maximum amount of balance weight that can be added to a wheel/tire assembly stems from the need to achieve optimal performance and safety in handling. When a wheel requires significant balancing weight, it may indicate underlying issues with the tire or wheel itself, such as irregularities that could lead to uneven wear or vibrations during driving.

Adding excessive weight, particularly beyond the recommended limit, can lead to complications such as increased stress on suspension components, altered driving dynamics, and potential impacts on vehicle safety and comfort. The figure of 4.5 ounces is generally recognized as a cautionary threshold that aims to maintain effective balance while minimizing potential negative effects on the vehicle's performance.

Thus, the acceptance of 4.5 ounces as the upper limit for balance weight reflects industry standards designed to ensure reliability and safety in vehicle handling.