Correct PSI Tire Pressure for ST205/65-10 Special Trailer Tire

Question:

what should the tire pressure be in a 205/65-10 on a 1988 coleman sunvalley popup camper be.

asked by: Rick P

Expert Reply:

The correct psi pressure for any special trailer tire, the ST type like # AM1HP52 that you referenced, is indicated right on the tire's sidewall. Any given tire's ability to support its rated weight capacity depends on inflation to this cold tire pressure. We have your tire size in several weight load ranges and the more weight a tire can handle the more pressure it requires to be able to handle that weight. For example, Loadstar # AM1HP56 requires 90-psi to meet its weight rating of 1650-lbs.

If your tires indicate a 50-psi maximum pressure on their sidewalls then when the tires are cold (undriven) this is the pressure they should have at the start of the day. Yes, driving and daytime ambient heat will naturally increase this pressure but you do NOT need to compensate for this. So long as the tires have this maximum cold pressure at the start of the day you'll be set.

It is never appropriate to under- or over-inflate a trailer tire for any reason. Incorrect pressure, high or low, leads to excess heat build-up in the tire and that is the primary cause for tire failure. The way to ensure longest service from a set of trailer tires is to always observe their proper pressure, and to operate them within their weight and speed ratings.

expert reply by: Adam R