Will Different Tire Sizes between Truck and Trailer Cause a Bumpy Ride

Question:

bumpy ride! are differing tires sizes to blame? Just bough a new gooseneck horse trailer with tire size ST23580R16 and hauled it with a 350 ford with tire size LT27565R20. Would the difference in tire size be an issue?

asked by: Frances

Expert Reply:

No, the tire size difference between the truck and trailer would not cause you to have a bumpy ride. Was the trailer empty when you experienced the bumpy ride? If so that would be the issue. A lack of weight on the trailer means the suspension won't compress or travel and it will feel stiff, bumpy, or bouncy.

If it is happening when the trailer is loaded make sure that you are not overloading the trailer and that the suspension is not worn out. If the springs are flat and/or the suspension mounting holes are oval instead of round then it is time to replace some suspension components.

You also may experience a rough ride if there is too little or too much weight on the ball and if the trailer is not being towed level. So there are several things to check but the good news is that none of them are beyond correction.

expert reply by: Michael H