Do trailers need special tires?
Special trailer tires (st tires) there are two primary design differences that make st tires well suited for trailers. Because trailers are designed to carry cargo and that cargo is often heavy, st tires have even more load capacity than a similar sized lt tire. Standard for heavy-duty trailers, utility trailers, and some rvs. Built for heavier loads, commonly found on larger trailers and rvs. Heavy-duty tires designed to support very large, heavy loads, often found on commercial trailers, large rvs, and industrial applications.Trailer tires are developed specifically for use on travel trailers, pop-up campers, boat trailers and fifth wheel trailers. Designed to deliver on-highway service for towed trailers, ST-sized tires are not intended to be used on cars or light trucks.Using them interchangeably is a recipe for disaster, even if the intended use is short. Car tires transfer power from the vehicle to the roadway and respond to sharp turns while maintaining traction and grip. Trailer tires carry heavy loads and have strengthened sidewalls to help with swaying during operation.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.The D on trailer tires refers to the tire’s load range or its ability to carry a specified amount of load at a certain pressure. The letter D indicates a load range of 8-ply, meaning it has the strength of an 8-ply tire but isn’t necessarily constructed from 8 physical plies of material.
Is D or R better for trailer tires?
The choice between D-rated and R-rated tires depends on your specific needs. D-rated tires are designed to handle heavier loads, but if you’re looking for a smoother ride and longer tread life, R-rated (radial) tires may be a better choice. The choice between D or R trailer tires depends on your specific needs, as each has its own strengths. D (bias ply) tires have stiffer sidewalls and are generally more durable and resistant to punctures, making them suitable for heavy loads and rough terrains.D tires are typically rated for a higher load capacity, making them ideal for heavy-duty trailers that carry substantial weight. On the other hand, R tires are generally designed for lighter loads and provide a smoother ride, which can be beneficial for recreational trailers.The most common wheel sizes for trailer tires are going to be 15 and 16 inches. For this size wheel, the most common tire sizes include: ST205/75R15, ST225/75R15, ST235/80R16 and ST235/85R16. These sizes increase in both diameter and width and as they get larger the ply rating of the tire also increases.Load Capacities The load capacity of 14-ply trailer tires can vary slightly depending on the tire’s size and brand, but in general, these tires can support up to 4,400 pounds per tire. For trailers with multiple axles, this means the total weight that can be safely towed is significantly higher.There are two primary design differences that make ST tires well suited for trailers. Because trailers are designed to carry cargo and that cargo is often heavy, ST tires have even more load capacity than a similar sized LT tire. Comfort is not really a concern because trailers are not intended to have people as cargo.
What is the most common trailer tire?
Radial tires are the most common type of tire today: Almost all passenger and light truck tires are radial, as are most trailer tires. Radial tires are indicated by an R before the rim size—for example, ST205/75R14. Radial tires ride more smoothly and are better for highway towing. You may have noticed a new type of tire being mentioned alongside familiar Light Truck and SUV/CUV tires such as Mud-Terrain, Rough-Terrain, and All-Terrain — the X/T Tire, which is also known as a Crossover tire, a Hybrid tire, or Extreme-Terrain tire.Lt tires explained LT-metric (Light Truck) tires are specifically engineered to work with trucks, full size SUVs and Vans. Including also 1/2 ton, 3/4 ton and 1 ton load capacity. An LT tire is basically a reinforced tire with extra steel belt, thicker, stiffer sidewalls and a deeper tread.
How many years should trailer tires last?
Replacing your trailer tire depends on several factors, including their age, wear, and usage. As a general rule of thumb, consider replacing trailer tires every 3 to 5 years, even if they appear to have sufficient tread. Each tire manufacturer will likely have different recommendations on the service life of a particular type of tire, but statistics suggest the average life of a trailer tire is about five years under normal use and maintenance conditions, and that tire replacement should be considered after three years, even if the .Carlisle Tire estimates that one-third of a tire’s strength is gone in approximately 3 years. Carlisle says to consider replacement after 3 years, regardless of tread depth remaining; and at 5 years definitely replace.
Which trailer tire lasts the longest?
Radial tires tend to last longer overall and are less likely to develop flat spots when parked for extended periods of time (some trailers are parked over the winter). Trailer tires can get flat spots when they sit for too long, and users discuss ways to prevent this, such as jacking up the trailer, rotating the wheels, and using tire covers. If they are not radial tires.Keep ’em moving — A parked trailer means the tires are bearing the weight in the same position on the tire for a long period of time. This can result in “flat spots” on a tire.In between your travels, your RV awaits its next adventure, even as it sits in storage, often on hard, flat surfaces, such as concrete. This can result in flat spots for your tires, which can lead to potentially disastrous and dangerous blowouts.