Trailer Tires for 11,000 Pound Tandem Axle 5th Wheel Trailer with Tires Distorting on Tight Turn

Question:

I have a 11,000 lb. 5th wheel, tandem axle trailer. In order to maneuver into its parking spot, we have to turn very tight such that the rear of the trailer is essentially pivoting in place. The surface is gravel/grass but the tires still distort from the lateral force. Will this damage the tires? Ive calculated the theoretical load on my tires actual trailer wt. - tongue wt./4. In my case I come up with just under 3,000 lb. which is well within load range E tire capacity. But this assumes that the trailer weight is uniformly distributed to each tire, which is not realistic. How much margin of safety should I add to account for inevitable load variations on the four tires? Thanks.

asked by: Ed O

Expert Reply:

Trailer tires have a much firmer sidewall than other tires. It is designed this way because on some turns you will have tire scrub like what you are describing but it normally is an issue for the tread more than the sidewall. It is best to avoid this as much as possible as it could absolutely damage the tire if there is too much lateral force on older tires, but the sidewalls are made to withstand quite a bit.

The Karrier ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range E # AM10295 you mentioned are rated individually for a max load of 3,640 lbs at 95 psi. This puts you well within the weight range of your axles. Even weight distribution on a trailer tire is ideal but as you stated it will vary especially on turns, so you need to make sure your axles and suspension are equipped for that as well as you tires. These tires will be rated higher than your axles and suspension so they will perform well for you. You will want to note they are only rated for speeds up to 62 mph.

expert reply by: Jason S