Would it be Wise to Upgrade From 235/80-16 to 235/85-16 Tires For a Trailer Pulling a Tractor

Question:

I have a trailer i pull tractor on it has on it now st23580r16 rated at 3500lbs 2 axles 4 tires total do you think getting the st23585r16 they can haul 4400lbs each would be wise or not

asked by: Harlee S

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you have a tire like the Karrier ST235/80R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range E # AM10248 and want to switch to a tire like the Karrier ST235/85R16 Load Range F # AM10501. The first thing to consider is whether or not the additional capacity is needed.

Right now with your four ST235/80R16 tires they can handle 14,000 lbs. If you don't need to be able to put more than 14,000 lbs on your trailer then you really don't need the higher capacity.

Another thing to consider is the other components on your trailer. Although the # AM10501 tire would increase tire capacity overall to 15,840 lbs, you will be limited by the weakest component on your trailer. If the axle is not rated that high, or anything else on the trailer can't handle the additional weight, you have nothing to gain.

One other thing to consider is the difference in size. The # AM10501 is going to be .7" taller. Although that doesn't seem like a lot, you need to make sure you wouldn't have clearance issues. This means you will lose .35" of clearance on top of your tire. Typically 3-4" is best to allow for normal suspension travel.

Outside of that, the larger tires will be able to fit on your current wheels.

I have attached a review video, along with some helpful articles on trailer tires for your reference.