Can I Lower The Pressure On My Log Splitter Tires To Help Smooth the Ride Out

Question:

Yeah, I know, here we go again! But, I have a home built by me professional welder log splitter that now rides on ST 175/80 D 13 load range C wheels /tires. I just switched from 4.80-12 tires load range B. The axles are independent rubber torsion axles for motorcycle trailers. The weight distribution is approximately 225 pounds on each tire give or take depending on how much gasoline is in the engine tank and about 55 pounds on the tongue. The ST tires are marked 50 psi. I towed the splitter at about 60MPH max for a few years with the 4.80 tires with no issues but always ran 60 psi as stated on the sidewall. Now with the ST 175s I can run a little faster speed rating M to keep up with traffic on the interstates but was wondering if I could drop the pressure to around 45 psi? The trailer/splitter towed perfectly with the smaller tires and I tested it the other day for several miles with the larger tire and felt no difference other than it bounced a little over manhole covers and such. Any thoughts?

asked by: Stephen L

Expert Reply:

I know this is not what you want to hear but we must recommend that you inflate the trailer tires to the max psi listed on the sidewall. I will say that plenty of others will lower the pressure in their trailer tires based on the load at the time and they do not have any issues in doing so but that still does not mean we can recommend this. The lower pressure rating of the tire will then allow for a smoother ride but you also run the risk of tire temperatures increasing and then causing a blowout. If you were to go with the Provider ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire part # TTWTRTM1758013C which is only rated for 50 psi and has an 81 mph speed rating this would then give you a perfect balance of speed and support/ride quality.

I have attached a help article for you on trailer tires which may help answer some of your questions as well.

expert reply by: Conner L