2010 Flagstaff 176LTD Tire and Wheel Upgrade with Higher Speed Rating

Question:

I am looking to replace my popup camper tires. 2010 Forest River Flagstaff 176LTD. I am replacing both tires and the spares. Is there any advantage to go from a 5.30x12 or 145/80r12 to a 175/80R13? May concerns are: * 2100lb GVWR * 61 MPH speed rating looking for N or better * Quality and Reliability I had a blowout on the highway with a Carlisle 145R12C see photos. I dont want to go through that again. I am currently considering the Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Tire w/ 12inch White Spoke Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR D and also looking at Provider ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 13inch White Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C. I have 15-3/4inch from the center of the hub to the top inside of the wheel well. I wish there was a 175/70R13 option available. Both tires fit load and speed requirements. Just not sure which way is best.

asked by: Rex A

Expert Reply:

Since you have the clearance for the larger tire I'd go with the Provider # TA43RR that you mentioned as it has the higher speed rating you want at 81 mph, has a higher weight capacity, and requires 50 psi as opposed to 65 psi like the other tire you mentioned which will be easier to inflate to. Larger tires in general are easier on hubs and trailer suspension since the wheel ends up spinning slower and the bumps aren't felt as severely.

Worth mentioning is that typically tire failure is due to the age of the tires as they go bad around 4-6 years.

expert reply by: Jameson C