Are There Advantages to Replacing a 205/75-14 Tire With a 215/75-14 Tire

Question:

I have a heartland mallard m27 that has st205/75/14 tires on it . I would like to know if it makes sense to replace with a radial tire and move up to a st215/75/14 or leave size alone

asked by: Ed

Expert Reply:

Realistically there would be no reason or advantage to switch from a 205/75-14 tire to a 215/75-14 tire, although the 215/75-14 will fit your current wheel. If you are looking for a radial tire, you could get a radial tire that is the same size you have now like the Karrier ST205/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D # AM10235.

This tire will have the same/similar outer diameter and section width of your current tire. The difference is minimal between the 205/75-14 and 215/75-14, but there is no reason to lose any clearance between the trailer frame and fender.

There is also nothing to gain when it comes to capacity. The # AM10235 has a load range of D with a maximum load of 2,200 lbs at 75 psi. The 215/75-14 tires only go up to a load range of C with a typical max capacity of 1,870 lbs at 50 psi. The Karrier tire also has a speed rating of M for a max speed of 81 mph so there is no topping that with the different size.

I have attached a helpful article on trailer tire sizing which shows all of the sizes and capacities for your reference.

expert reply by: Robin H