Which Provides the Best Corrosion Resistance, ESR Finish or Aluminum Wheels?

Question:

Have a 18ft utility trailer rated for 14K. Looking for rust resistant wheels and of course tires to go with it. Would a wheel with an ESR finish be good or would your recommend something else.

asked by: Robert H

Expert Reply:

I would recommend something else. In terms of good, better and best corrosion resistance, the ESR Finish you referenced is what we would consider the "better" option. While better than galvanized wheels, this finish is still placed on steel wheels which means that over time the inevitable nick or scratch will expose the steel, making it susceptible to corrosion.

For the best corrosion resistance, an aluminum wheel/tire combo like # LHAWSO513B provides far superior coverage. It has a maximum load capacity of 3,520 lbs at 80 psi so, assuming your trailer is a tandem axle trailer, it will provide a combined capacity of just over 14,000 lbs, which is perfect.

This tire-and-wheel assembly comes with a 5-year warranty on the tire, of which the first year is a "no excuses guarantee", and a 1-year warranty on the wheel. To top it off you also get complimentary roadside assistance for 2 years.

To complete your package, I recommend # LHCS109-SI60C for a center cap. Depending on the size of your wheel bolts, you can use # LHLR103 for 1/2"-20 lug nuts or # LHLR110 for 9/16"-18 lug nuts.