Trailer Tire Pressure Rating and Factors that Cause Tire Failure

Question:

Ive been getting different answers about the max inflation of trailer tires. I am seeing on this website that they recommend max inflation, yet a tow agent told me that I should allow for heat build-up by having about five psi below the max. After having a blowout while traveling, and causing about $7k in damage to my trailer, while having the max air pressure in my tires upon starting the trip, I have a lot of confusion on this subject. I need some solid advice since I am looking at traveling long distance next year and do not want to repeat this experience. Please advise as to what the best procedure is.

asked by: Kenneth C

Expert Reply:

Special trailer tires should be inflated to their maximum air pressure. The value for the maximum air pressure should be listed along with the value for the maximum load on the tire's sidewall. These values will usually designate the maximum load at a maximum psi. For example, if the tire is rated at 1,610 lbs maximum at 65 psi, the tire can carry 1,610 lbs of weight if the air pressure is at the maximum of 65 psi. At the maximum air pressure, the tires will perform and wear best, and get the best gas mileage.

If a trailer tire is inflated to a lower air pressure than the maximum, the amount of weight that the tire can carry will be reduced. If a heavier load is put on the trailer tire than what is recommended for that air pressure, the sidewall of the tire could heat up and cause the tire to fail.

You should always inflate your tires when they are cold.

Overloading the trailer tire can cause it to fail as well as exceeding the speed rating for the tire.

Special trailer tires are usually rated to operate at a maximum speed of 65 mph. If you exceed 65 mph, heat could build up in the tire and cause it to break down and fail. If a tire is rated to run at a higher speed, this information should be listed on the trailer's sidewall.

expert reply by: Jameson C