When to Replace Trailer Tires on a 5th Wheel Trailer
Question:
I have a 5th wheel with a dry weight of 11k, and a pin weight of 2k. The factory only put a 8 ply 235/80/16tire on the trailer. Should I go up to a 10 to 12 ply? I have had 2 blowouts on the front but I think they were from bad roads in the state of South Carolina, trying to figure out something so that I dont have to change tires in the middle of no where. The tires on my trailer are 7 years old. questions 1 should i up the load rating on my tires? 2 how many years should you use a trailer tire? 3 should you change both tires on the same side of a trailer if you have a flat? 4 can you recommend a tire pressure monitor of some kind? 5 if your trailer sits for a period of time should you try and take weight off of the tires? 6 do you replace the spare tire when changing all of the tires? Thanks
asked by: Brian B
Expert Reply:
Trailer blowouts can be caused by several different things including heat, overloading, and road conditions. There is a difference between the amount of plies in a tire and its actual ply rating. Basically, due to advances in technology and materials a tire with 8 plies could have a 10 ply rating.
To answer your first question going with a higher capacity or load range tire than what you have now would provide you with a stronger tire and higher ply rating. It will not increase the capacity of the trailer though. We have 1 tire in size 235/80-16, # AM10248, rated for 3,197 pounds at 90 psi.
Next, the amount of years a trailer tire can be used depends on many factors, just like on a vehicle. Road conditions, tire size, weight on the tires, condition of the trailer, all of these factor into tire wear. So basically you would examine the tires regularly for signs of wear and replace as needed.
If you have a flat tire and the trailer has more than one axle you only have to change that one tire. However, the tire blowing could be an indication that something could be wrong with the other tires and you would need to examine them to determine if any others need to be replaced.
For a tire pressure monitoring system we have the TireMinder unit, # TM89FR. It comes with 4 sensors.
You do not have to have the weight off of the tires if it will sit for a long time, especially on a 5th wheel trailer where there is no easy way to do so. Using tire covers will protect the tires from the elements. For your tire size you could use 2-pack covers, # 052963762501.
For the spare, provided it is in good shape and has not dry rotted or sustained any damage then you will not have to replace it with all the other tires. I have included some helpful links on trailer tires and the monitoring system for you.
Be sure to always inflate trailer tires (ST in front of the size) to the maximum psi indicated on the tire.
Products Referenced in This Question
Classic Accessories RV Tire Covers for 27" to 30" Tires - Single Axle - White - Qty 2
- RV and Trailer Tire Covers
- Single Axle
- 27 Inch Tires
- 28 Inch Tires
- 29 Inch Tires
- 30 Inch Tires
- Vinyl
- 2 Covers
- White
- Classic Accessories
more information >
TireMinder i10 TPMS for RVs and Trailers w/ Signal Booster - 4 Tire Sensors
- TPMS Sensor
- RV
- Trailer
- Mounts to Valve Stems
- 4 Sensors
- Standard Sensors
- Waterproof
- Monitor Display
- TireMinder
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Karrier ST235/80R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range E
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire Only
- Radial Tire
- Load Range E
- 235/80-16
- 16 Inch
- M - 81 mph
- Kenda
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Video: CE Smith Boat Trailer Parts - Roller and Bunk Parts - CE26244G Review
- Shop: CE Smith V-Wing Bolster Bracket for Pontoon Boat Trailers - Galvanized Steel - Qty 1
- Q&A: After How Many Years Should Trailer Tires Be Replaced
- Video: Review of CE Smith Boat Trailer Parts - Roller and Bunk Parts - CE26265G40
- Shop: CE Smith Narrow V-Wing Bolster Bracket for Pontoon Boat Trailers - Galvanized Steel - Qty 1
- Shop: Bulldog Square Swivel Jack w/ Round Pipe Mount - Drop Leg - Sidewind - 28-1/2" Lift - 5,000 lbs
- Shop: Provider ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range G
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Search Results: 25580
- Shop: Hub Bearing Kit for Lippert, Dexter, and AL-KO Axles - 3,500 lb with #84 Spindle
- Shop: etrailer Hitch Pin Alignment Collar for Hitch Accessories - 2" Hitches
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between Load Range C and D ST175/80D13 Trailer Tires
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Shop: Kenda Karrier ST205/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire with 14" Black Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR C
- Search Results: spare tire carrier
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Q&A: Which is Better for Highway Use 4.80-12 or 5.30-12 Trailer TIres
- Search Results: lug nuts
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between Load Range B and C Trailer Tires
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Article: Most Popular Wheel Bearings
- Shop: Fifth Wheel Hitch
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Article: 7 Common Questions Everyone Has About Trailer Tires
on Trailer Tires and Wheels
