How do I know what wheels fit my trailer?
The bolt pattern determines everything when it comes to wheel compatibility. Trailers with 4 bolt holes commonly use 4 on 4 and 4 on 9. For heavy-duty applications, you’ll find 8-bolt patterns like 8 on 6-1/2 or 8 on 275mm. Not only is their construction slightly different, but the bolt patterns, widths, offsets, and weight capacities will vary as well. Trailer wheels tend to not have an offset (with the exception of a small portion of wheels) so that the load will be right above the tire which makes for better load bearing tread wear.
Can I use car tires on my trailer?
The dangers of using car tires on trailers the thinner sidewalls cannot support heavy trailer loads or resist swaying forces effectively. There are two types of trailer tires: radial and bias. A radial tire has steel belts that are oriented at a significantly different angle than the 90 degree radial plys. This allows the sidewall and tread to function as two independent features of the tire.Today’s standard trailers often perform better overall with radial tires. Les Schwab Tip: Whether you choose radial or bias tires, stick with the same type, size, and load range on all wheel positions on your trailer.Stiffer Sidewalls to Reduce Sway ST tires have reinforced, thicker sidewalls that control trailer sway and withstand the vertical load of towing. LT tires, by comparison, have more flexible sidewalls meant for ride comfort, not stability.
Can I convert car tires into trailer tires?
No, you cannot put car tires on a trailer. Car tires do not usually have the appropriate load rating for towing and could fail due to stress. Trailer tires and passenger car tires also have different treads for different purposes. Car tire treads used on trailers can cause irregular wear and potentially a blow out. No, regular car tires cannot be put in a trailer. This can be dangerous. Tire tread on car tires is different than the tread designed for trailers, which can cause irregular wear on the tire and will blow. Load ratings are also carefully chosen for car or truck tires and completely differ from trailer tires.
Are trailer tires stronger than regular tires?
Bias Ply Trailer Tires Bias-ply models are the thicker tires for trailers. This is due to the angled ply placement of the tire’s construction, which provides better load durability and damage resistance. When you see the bias-ply rating on tires, it means that they are sturdier. For hard-core towing and serious off-roading, 12-ply tires are better since they have the strength to carry the extra weight.
What type of tire is best for a trailer?
Today’s standard trailers often perform better overall with radial tires. Les Schwab Tip: Whether you choose radial or bias tires, stick with the same type, size, and load range on all wheel positions on your trailer. Tire Construction: Radial tires run cooler and last longer than bias-ply, great for long hauls. Tire Age: Even with good tread, tires older than 5 years should be replaced.A: The D indicates that the tire is a diagonal bias ply construction and the R indicates that the tire is a radial tire construction. Because of the construction of a radial tire, the tire has more flex and will allow for more ground contact. That will improve traction and better treadwear.
Do trailers need special tyres?
The short answer is yes: the tyres on your tow-behind work differently from those on regular car tyres. They’re designed to support the weight or load of your trailer and keep you safe on the road when towing. Not only is their construction slightly different, but the bolt patterns, widths, offsets, and weight capacities will vary as well. Trailer wheels tend to not have an offset (with the exception of a small portion of wheels) so that the load will be right above the tire which makes for better load bearing tread wear.