Replacement Trailer Tires Needed for a Trailer with H78-15-LT Tires

Question:

I have an old trailer and need to replace the tires. They are H78-15-LT. What will work for these? I cant find the correct tires.

asked by: Chris R

Expert Reply:

Your trailer tires work out roughly to be the same size as a 225/70-15 tire or a 215/80-15 tire. By my calculations the 225/70-15 tire is 27.4 inches tall and 8.9 inches wide and the 215/80-15 tire is 28.6 inches tall and 8.5 inches wide.

The LT designation on your tires is for light truck applications and you would be better off using ST (special trailer) tires that are designed for use on trailers. We do not have an exact match to the above mentioned tire sizes but we do have two tire sizes that are very close. You will need to select the tires that are closest to 1/2 your trailer axle weight capacity, and that will fit on your trailer and not cause problems with rubbing. Measuring the clearance on your trailer with one of the original tires is the best way to determine this.

The Karrier ST205/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range C, item # AM10244, is 27.3 inches tall and 8.1 inches wide, so there should be no problem with this tire on your trailer since it is a bit smaller than the original size. The Capacity of this tire is 1,820 lbs at 50 psi which makes it a good choice for a trailer with 3500 lbs axles.

The Karrier ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D, item # AM10256, is 28.4 inches tall and 8.9 inches wide, which is very close to your original tire size. This tire is rated at 2540 lbs at 65 psi, which is a good choice for trailers with 5,000 pound axles.

Trailer tires are recommended because the sidewall is constructed heavier to carry the vertical load required of trailers. You should also run ST trailer tires at the full pressure rating listed on the tire for longevity of the tire and maximum carrying capacity.

expert reply by: Robert G