What is the difference between trailer tires and normal tires?
When comparing tires side by side, trailer tires have distinctly thicker sidewalls and narrower tread width compared to car tires. The tread patterns are also different, with trailer tires optimized for stability rather than grip. Generally, these smaller trailer tires are often rated for speeds up to 65 mph (105 km/h). However, it’s important to check the specific tire markings or the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure safe operation at higher speeds.But do check the weight restrictions, as these are different depending on when you obtained your licence. On motorways the national speed limit is 70mph. However, when towing a trailer or caravan this is reduced to 60mph to increase safety and stability. Similarly on dual-carriageways you’ll need to stick to 60mph.No, you cannot put car tires on a trailer. 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.They are also typically speed rated to 65 mph max so highway speeds are perfectly doable. We recommend looking at our blog on the truth about trailer tires for more information!
What are trailer tire sizes?
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. 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.Trailer tires are also usually cheaper than your typical passenger vehicle or light truck tire. The most common trailer tire type is known as special tire (ST). These typically have reinforced sidewalls to keep your rig in place and have a higher load capacity compared to light truck or passenger tires.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.
What is the highest speed rated trailer tire?
The common speed rating for trailer tires is 65 to 75 mph. If you exceed the speed rating, the tires heat up causing tire failure and blowouts. The speed rating can be found near the size on the sidewall of the tires and will typically be a letter G(56mph), J(62mph), K(68mph), or L(75mph). Car tires simply aren’t built to handle trailer-specific stresses. The thinner sidewalls cannot support heavy trailer loads or resist swaying forces effectively. Load ratings on car tires are calculated for vehicle frames, not trailer frames, which distribute weight differently.Trailer specific tires are also better at resisting damage, neglect and abuse (because they are really tough). See the ply ratings.The “4. In this case, the tire is 4. The next digit represents the wheel size the tire will fit. This tire is meant for trailer wheels that are 8 inches in diameter. An arrow points to the numbers 265/70R17 115T on the inner part of the tire sidewall. R stands for radial, 17 is the wheel diameter and 115T is the load index and speed symbol.R15 tires have a diameter of 28. The sidewall of the tire is 6. This means a 235/75R15 tire will make make 699 revolutions per mile, or 434 revolutions per kilometer.
Which trailer tire lasts the longest?
Radial trailer tires offer smoother rides, better fuel efficiency, and longer life. The letter R means the tyre is a radial construction.