Uneven Tire Wear Due To Tire Pressure Or Speed

Question:

Tandem axle 3500# rated each travel trailer, less than 12,000 miles on 3rd season has excessive wear on rear tires only, outer tread edge. Trailer 3840# dry weight, about 4500# loaded. Most of first 2 seasons were run 10# below max pressure, last 4,000 miles run at max pressure.

asked by: Stan W

Expert Reply:

On your travel trailer you have seen uneven tire wear because you were not running at max psi until the last 4,000 miles. Trailer tires are designed to run at their max psi when inflated cold (prior to your trip). They will heat up and build more pressure as you travel, but they are intended to run at that psi. When you lower the psi, you will cause the tires to overheat and the wear can be seen over time as you are experiencing. If the speed rating is exceeded on your tires this can also add to the wear.

If they continue to wear unevenly, it may be due to damage in the first two seasons, and then I recommend replacing your tires. I've linked the page for your convenience, but I'm happy to give you a recommendation if you let me know your tire size.

expert reply by: Jason S