Trailer Tire Wear Troubleshooting

Question:

Re: Kenda 215/60-8 Bias Trailer Tire with 8 inch Galvanized Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range C This tire has max load rating of 1820 lbs. Theoretically, a single axle trailer and contents could weigh up to 3640 lbs and not exceed the tires capability. The recommended inflation is 50 psi on the sidewall. My trailer and motorcycle probably weigh 1000 lbs. I inflated to 50 psi and tow 2000 miles and the tread is worn off in a band around the middle of the tire. Im waiting for a call back from Kenda but am asking, is there a sliding scale for inflation pressure based on total weight when less than max? Example: Should the psi have been, say, 35 instead of 50 for 1000 pounds to get even tread wear across the tire? Ive purchased another tire and will put it on the ground with my unused spare but dont want to waste them in such short mileage.

asked by: John R

Expert Reply:

Trailer tires are typically made to be run at the max psi listed on the tire when filled cold. It is very possible because of the capacity of your tire that your tire is rated too high.

My recommendation is to instead use Kenda 215/60-8 Bias Trailer Tire with 8" Galvanized Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range C # AM3H300 which is rated for a max load of 940 lbs at 50 psi and speeds up to 65 mph. The wear on your tire most likely has to do with too high a capacity as well as exceeding the max speed of your tire. We do not have any tires in the 8 inch size rated for speeds above 65 mph.

I've attached an article on trailer tires to help with other common questions.

expert reply by: Jason S