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Can Higher Load Range Tire Be Used With Lowered Air Pressure For Softer Ride  

Question:

I have a question regarding trailer tires. Towing a camper that has a 3500 lb axle so 205/75R14 tires that have the load rating C when inflated to 50 psi are fine. If I spend a couple more dollars per tire I can get 205/75R14 tires that have the load rating D 8 ply instead of 6. Can I run the D load rated tires at 50 psi and get the equivalent load C rating? Does this get me a better/tougher tire for my application and since I am running at the same 50 PSI I would not be creating a stiffer/rougher ride for the camper and its contents vs the load C rated tire? Thanks for your help with this question.

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Expert Reply:

You should always inflate the tires for a trailer to the maximum air pressure listed on the sidewall of the tire. Under-inflating a tire will wear the outer edges of the tread. Over-inflating a tire will result in wear the center tread.

The Load Range D tire we offer in the size you asked about, ST205/75R14 is part # AM10235. The # AM10235 has a maximum load capacity of 2,040-lbs at 65 psi. Under-inflating this tire to th e50 psi you mentioned may result in a softer ride but tire wear will be an issue.

I have attached a link to a helpful article about tires you can check out.

expert reply by:
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Jeffrey L

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