Bias Trailer Tires Versus Radial Trailer Tires on a 1998 Coleman Natchez Trailer
Question:
I currently have Dura XL ST185/80 D13 tires which have a D load rating. A couple of questions: What is the difference between this tire which is an 8 ply tire and a similar sized radial tire? Which one is better? Second question - Can I upgrade to a 14 inch tire and achieve a higher margin of tire performance and safety? Thanks
asked by: Mike Z
Expert Reply:
There are several advantages to having a radial tire over a bias ply tire. Radial tires track better and offer more contact with the ground. More ground contact improves traction and will provide better tread wear. Radial tires are also have more stability than a bias ply tire. Radials also run cooler if they are not overloaded. This helps the tire last longer.
A bias ply tire has a stiffer sidewall and might be used more on off road applications, like farm use.
If you wanted to go to a larger size wheel and tire, you would need to make sure that there is clearance all around the tire for the larger size. For example a Karrier ST205/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire, # AM32156, is 8.1 inches wide and 26.3 inches tall. This is almost a full inch wider and 2 inches taller than the ST185/80 D13 tires.
If you have clearance and the same bolt pattern, you can use the larger tire. However, the trailer capacity remains the same. Adding tires with a higher capacity does not increase the trailer capacity. It will also make the trailer more susceptible to sway because it will be a little taller which raises the center of gravity.
I have included a link to our FAQ article on trailer tires for you to view.
Products Referenced in This Question
Karrier ST205/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire with 14" Galvanized Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Radial Tire
- Load Range C
- 205/75-14
- 14 Inch
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Galvanized
- Boat Trailer Wheels
- Kenda
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Loadstar ST185/80D13 Bias Trailer Tire with 13" Galvanized Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Bias Ply Tire
- Load Range D
- 185/80-13
- 13 Inch
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Galvanized
- Boat Trailer Wheels
- Kenda
more information >
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