Replacement of 5.30 x 12 Trailer Tires and Appropriate Trailer Tire Pressure Recommendations

Question:

Hi, I have read your posts regarding tire pressure and I want to confirm this. I have 5.30 x 12 load rating C tires which state max load 1045 lbs at 80 PSI cold. Does this actually mean they should have 80 PSI in them because a tire shop told me rating C should have 50 PSI and a website has a chart at the bottom that says 50 PSI. So, Im confused. I have a 1997 Rockwood Premier 1907 camper and looking to get new tires Thanks

asked by: Scott

Expert Reply:

Based on the information that you have supplied for your 5.30 by 12 Load Range C Tires (which have a maximum load rating of 1045 pounds), you are correct that these tires should be inflated to 80 PSI. Trailer tires should always be inflated to the maximum PSI stated on the tire, and should be inflated when they are cold.

Special Trailer (ST) tires are designed to handle higher air pressure and have stronger sidewalls than passenger vehicle tires. These ST tires are expressly designed to carry the substantial weight load of trailers.

If a tire is under-inflated this condition will reduce the amount of weight that the tire can carry. Under-inflation can also cause the tire to heat up and fail. Conversely if the tire is over-inflated it will wear unevenly and will need to be replaced sooner.

Please note that the PSI ratings for trailer tires verses passenger vehicle tires are different even if the load range is the same, and this may be why you are getting information relative to 50 PSI rating for a Load Range C tire.

I have included links to two helpful articles titled Trailer Tire Sizing and Trailer Tire Frequently Asked Questions that further explain the distinctions between tire types.

I was able to find some information on-line regarding the newer Rockwood Premier 1907 campers, but not any information specific to the 1997 Model Year. I recommend consulting your owners manual to make sure that you are replacing the trailer tires with the type and rating specified by the manufacturer. I would also recommend making sure that the the replacement tires that you choose match the weight capacity of your trailer axles. Or you could also make sure that the tires at the minimum match or exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
of your trailer. If you are not the original owner it is possible that these tires may not be the originals nor the correct tires for this camper trailer.

If you are looking to replace your existing tires with similar tires I would recommend the Kenda K353 Bias Tire # AM10066. If you are looking to replace the tires and wheels, I recommend the Kenda # AM30780 for a 4 on 4 bolt pattern, or the # AM30820 if you have a 5 on 4-1/2 bolt pattern.

I have included links to the parts listed above as well as an additional helpful article regarding determining the bolt pattern on your wheel.