Can Radial Trailer Tires Be Used On a Boat Trailer

Question:

Why do all the tire dealers say never put radials on a trailer? Does it matter if a regular trailer vs being a boat trailer?

asked by: Jami C

Expert Reply:

If the statement you are referring to is in regards to a passenger type radial tire then as these do not have the sidewall capacity for a trailer, I will have to agree with this statement. However, if the statement you are referring to is in regards to a special trailer type radial tire then these can absolutely be used on a trailer whether that be a utility trailer or boat trailer.

If the tire is a passenger type it will have a "P" listed before the size, P175/80-13 for example. If the tire is a special trailer type it will have an "ST" listed before the size, ST175/80-13 for example. The special trailer radial type tire is preferred for a trailer as these will run cooler and last longer when compared to a special trailer bias type tire. The radial ply will also most likely have a higher speed rating than a bias ply.

If you have 175/80-13 tires on your trailer then the best radial option we have for this is the Provider ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire part # TTWTRTM1758013C which has a load range C (1,360 lbs) and a 81 mph speed rating.

expert reply by: Conner L