Recommended Tires For Camp Trailer with ST145/R12 Sized Tires

Question:

I have a 1500lbs trailer/camper. I need ST145/R12 tires for high speed hwy travel and high heat in South. Should I use a load range D or E? Would a higher load range beat my camper up since much less weight?

asked by: Tim S

Expert Reply:

For tire size ST145/R12 we have two options. The first, and my recommendation, is the Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D, # AM10130. This is an 8 ply radial special trailer tire with automotive-grade tread designed for highway use and has an M rating of 81 mph.

Load range D has a capacity of 1,220 lbs. at 65 psi, whereas load range E has a capacity of 1,520 lbs. at 80 psi. With trailer tires you always want to have them inflated to their maximum that way you get the best handling, braking and wear characteristics. Weight capacity ratings on tires are for that 1 tire. So if you used 2 of # AM10130 for example the total capacity would be 2,440 pounds total which far exceeds your needed weight rating but provides a high speed rating.

The second option, is the Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range E, # AM10140. This is a 10 ply tire with a higher load rating of E, max load of 1,520 lbs. at 80 psi but the speed rating is lowered to 65 mph. Because you exceed the needed weight rating on both tire options, I suggest going with the tire option that has the higher speed rating.

expert reply by: Michael R