Changing to Higher Rated Tires on Travel Trailer

Question:

I currently have a TT with Kenda Karrier ST205/75/R14 - load C AM10234 tires on Dexter steel wheel AM20352 that are 6 years old with rubber valves. I want to replace them with Karrier ST205/75/R14 - load D AM10235 on the same wheel AM20352 with metal valves AM20906. The sticker on my wheel says it is rated to 2080 lbs which I think is the same rating of the load D tire at 65 PSI. Does this seem like a good combination?

asked by: Vic

Expert Reply:

The set-up you propose sounds like a fine option, with the exception of the metal valve stems. The # AM20352 wheels you mention (along with all the 14 inch wheels we offer) have a .453 hole in the rim for inserting the valve stem. The # AM20906 uses a .625 hole.

I'd recommend using the # AM20904 valve stems which are compatible with the # AM20352 wheels and are good up to 80 psi. It's important you keep the tires fully inflated to the pressure listed on the sidewall, which in this case is 65 psi. Keep in mind that going to higher load rated tire will NOT increase the capacity of your travel trailer. You'll still be limited by the capacity of the lowest rated component.

I've linked you to our trailer tire FAQ article which I hope you'll find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L