Can Kenda ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire, Part # AM10501, Replace Light Truck Tires on 5th Wheel

Question:

I currently have Uniroyal LT235/85R/16 tires on my NuWa sfifth wheel. Most poeople rec. replacing them with ST rated. Would the #AM10501 fit on my 16x6 rims and would E rated load be acceptable?

asked by: Don

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Kenda ST235/85R16 Radial Special Trailer Tire, part # AM10501, will fit your 16 x 6 inch rims.

Special Trailer tires (ST type) have a stiffer sidewall than light truck (LT) tires and so will not provide quite as soft a ride. Special Trailer tires also usually carry a speed rating of up to 65 mph maximum.

I reviewed a number of different NuWa 5th wheels on their website. The manufacturer specifies both LT and ST type tires depending on the series and model. For example, the 8 models in the Hitchhiker LS series all call for a special trailer tire, size ST 235/80R/16, load range E. The 14 models in the Discover America series call for ST type E-rated tires on some models and LT type G-rated tires on others. There does not seem to be any particular correlation for either type; among trailers of similar gross weight some are specified for ST and others for LT.

Given this, and since I do not know what particular model 5th wheel you own, I am reluctant to advise on whether or not it is appropriate to change to a different tire type. I recommend you consult your owners manual, local dealer or the manufacturer. The same concern applies to the question of changing to tires of a different load rating.

If you would like to provide the specific year and model of your trailer I will be happy to contact the manufacturer on your behalf.

expert reply by: Adam R