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Trailer Tires
Ambrose
Member Posts: 3,208 ✭✭✭✭
Need to replace 'em on my 2 axle, 2 horse trailer. Bias or radial? Load range?
Comments
Radials will likely ride smoother which can be easier on your horses. Radials may also cause more 'fish tailing' if not properly inflated or with unbalanced loading(tail heavy).
A couple of my infrequently used trailers have used load range D pickup tires on them which is good enough but those are more prone to blow out(as would be expected). I would not suggest any trailer tire with less than a Load Range C rating and LR D is better even for lighter trailer even though the load carrying capability isn't a factor—IMHO.
Lots of guys using gooseneck stock trailers on gravel roads have moved up to 12-14 ply (F/G) rated tires to lessen gravel punctures.
Last time I needed tires for my 10K dual axle enclosed trailer I bought Towmax STR II tires. Trailer towed very smoothly with no issues.
https://towmaxtires.com/tire/details/towmax-str-ii
Like Mobuck said, the more load range the better. I have Made in USA Goodyear load range E tires on my tandem axle 7K GVWR flatbed trailer. Whatever you do don't buy made in China tires….
And remember that trailer tires should be changed out every 3-5 years. All tires have a date of manufacture on them.
"And remember that trailer tires should be changed out every 3-5 years. All tires have a date of manufacture on them."
Please keep in mind this 'recommendation' is made by the same folks whose business it is to SELL NEW TIRES.
I bought a new trailer last year. It was a holdover from 2022 and the tires were dated in 2021 so they're now at that 3 year old mark but only have 300-400 miles on them at most. Be assured I AM NOT GOING TO REPLACE THEM JUST BECAUSE OF THAT,
After spending 10 years selling tires I can tell you flat out DO NOT USE CAR/TRUCK (P, XL, or LT rated) tires on a trailer. Use ST rated tires only. The sidewalls of non-ST tires are not designed for the side loads placed upon them for use on trailers. Yes, LT tires will work but they are not as safe as ST rated tires on trailers. If you are pulling your critters ST tires will assure their safety. If you are hauling trash or your mother-in-law, other tires will be fine. US made tires are better than China tires but finding USA made tires is getting harder and harder.
I put 14 ply tires on my trailers last year and they barely squat with a load now. Get trailer tires with the highest gross weight rating you can.
You can also review ST tires (Special Trailer service) on-line.
They are usually branded right on the tire FOR TRAILER USE ONLY.