5th Wheel Tire Recommendation to Replace a ST235/80R16 with Higher Capacity

Question:

I have a 38 foot 5th wheel with ST235/80R16. My trailer is rated for 12,500 pounds with two dexter axils each rated 6,000 pounds. In three years I have blown out 5 tires. I had it weighed and am over 300 pounds on front axil and 100 pounds over on rear axil. I saw on your site a E rated tire that ST235/85 R16 that looks like would carry a lot more weight than what I have now. Would I be able to use the same rims?

asked by: Jim H

Expert Reply:

Yes, the tire size ST235/85-16 will work well as a replacement for your ST235/80R16. Both of these tire sizes are designed to fit the exact same rim sizes. Only difference is the new tires will be a little over 1/2 an inch taller.

The part # AM10295 that you referenced has a 3,640 lbs at 95 psi capacity. Special trailer tires should be inflated to their maximum air pressure. 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.

I attached an FAQ article on trailer tires for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C