What is Causing Blowouts and Can 225/75-15 Trailer Tires Replace 205/75-15 Trailer Tires

Question:

Is a 5 or 6 ply better to use than a 4 ply. Had 2 blowouts with 4 ply tires. Can yo put a 225/75R15 tire on the rim of a 205 75R15?

asked by: Clem G

Expert Reply:

A blowout can be caused by any number of things, from the trailer being overloaded to the tire being underinflated (or underrated) to just a poor quality tire. In general, the higher the load range and capacity the higher the ply rating will be, so if you are using 4-ply tires and have 15 inch wheels, it sounds like you may not have a tire with the correct load capacity so in your case I strongly recommend going to a trailer tire with a higher ply rating, and a higher quality tire.

In regards to your second question, a ST225/75R15 may be able to replace a ST205/75R15 tire, but it depends on the width of your rim as well as if you have enough space. A ST225/75R15 tire is going to be nearly a full inch wider and over an inch larger in diameter and with trailer tires, the general rule of thumb is you want at least 3" of clearance from the top of the tire to your fender and at least 1" of clearance between the inside of the tire and your trailer's frame rail.

I highly recommend going with a quality tire, either the Westlake ST205/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D # LHWL300 which has a 2,150 lb capacity and 75 mph speed rating, or if you do have room for the larger tire, the Castle Rock ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D # 274-000029 which has a 2,540 lb and also has a 75 mph load rating. Both of these tires fit 15" x 5" and 15" x 6" rims, have deep tread depths for traction, have 8-ply ratings for superior strength, and both also come with free roadside assistance for two years just in case you ever need it.

I have added links to video reviews of both tires for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Kyle S