Is there a difference between trailer tires and truck tires?
Passenger tires begin with P for Passenger or LT for Light Truck, while trailer tires start with ST for Special Trailer. When comparing tires side by side, trailer tires have distinctly thicker sidewalls and narrower tread width compared to car tires. Always use ST-rated tires exclusively on trailers and never exceed posted speed limits. Regular inspection for unusual wear patterns is crucial, along with maintaining proper inflation pressure and replacing tires based on age rather than just tread depth.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.While trailer tyres might look like regular vehicle ones, they have different characteristics to handle being towed and carrying weight. Here are the main differences between car and trailer tyres: Sidewalls. Trailer tyre sidewalls are stiffer to accommodate carrying heavier loads than car tyres and avoid swaying.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.Special Trailer (ST) 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.
Can I use truck tires on a trailer?
ST and LT tires are not interchangeable. The stiffer sidewalls of tires for trailer use only are designed for larger loads, and there is a large possibility that light truck tires will fail under the same pressure. LT tires are usually 8-ply (Load Range D) or 10-ply (Load Range E). Passenger Tires usually have a 4-ply or 6-ply equivalent sidewall. The performance trade-offs of the added material in LT tires are harsher ride, less fuel efficiency, and less responsive handling.A LT designates it as a light truck category. Many All-Terrain (AT), Mud-Terrain (MT), and highway-terrain (HT) tires are in this category. These tires are designed to haul heavy weight, and for overall durability.LT means light truck tire, designed for vehicles capable of carrying heavy loads, towing trailers, or for those looking for an extra heavy-duty option. These are often equipped on three-quarter or 1-ton trucks and SUVs. ST stands for Special Trailer.LT tires also have extra material in the sidewall and under the tread that protects the tire from damage. In the other hand, LT tires won’t ride as smooth, be as fuel efficient or last longer than a regular P-metric (Passenger)tire.LT tires are a good choice due to their reinforced construction and higher load capacity if you use your truck for towing, hauling heavy loads, or off-road driving. However, P-metric tires might suffice if you primarily use your vehicle for everyday commuting or light duties.
What is the size of a trailer tire?
Popular Trailer Tire Sizes Some of the most common trailer tire sizes include: ST175/80R13 – Small utility trailers, boat trailers. ST205/75R14 – Medium-duty trailers. ST225/75R15 – Heavy-duty trailers, RVs, car haulers. 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.Just as passenger tires may be indicated with a P designation, and light truck tires carry an LT designation, the most common trailer tires are those known as “special trailer,” or ST. You want to stick with a special trailer when you can, if it’s available,” Ruede says.
Why not use LT tires on trailers?
Lower Load Ratings: LT tires cannot carry as much vertical load as ST tires in the same size. Flexing Sidewalls: More flex equals more heat and faster wear under trailer loads. Risk of Premature Failure: Using LT or P tires on a boat trailer increases the risk of tread separation, blowouts, and sway. 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.Features from tread designs to selected compounds are needed because the tires are tasked with different jobs. It’s the steer tires’ job to keep the truck heading in the right direction. Drive tires provide traction to get the truck going and keep it moving, while the trailer tires just kind of go along for the ride.
Can I put regular tires on a trailer?
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. Overloading: Exceeding the trailer’s weight capacity puts immense stress on the tires, increasing the likelihood of blowouts. Age and Wear: Aging tires or those with significant wear are more prone to failure. Road Hazards: Potholes, debris, and uneven road surfaces can cause tire damage.Trailer tires typically last longer than car tires because they endure less friction and heat generated during braking and cornering. However, the longevity of any tire depends on various factors, including maintenance, load capacity, and environmental conditions.Automotive tires are designed for high, simultaneous, steering, breaking and weight shifting loads. They have to be to take what we do to them. Think about your left front tire in a hard right turn when you are hard on the brakes! Trailer tires don’t / won’t perform at anywhere near that level.Trailer wheel and rim manufacturers warn against interchanging car, truck, and trailer tires: If there is an accident, you may be liable for using rims for the wrong application. The cost of trailer tires is comparable to car and truck tires: Really, there is no great reason to want to interchange these tires, anyway.