Upgrading Tires and Wheels on Single Axle Travel Trailer
Question:
I have a new single wheel, single axle travel trailer with a 3,853 pound gross capacity. The tires that came on it are Vail ST205/75d14 on steel white 5 by 4.5inch wheels. These wheels have a 1,760 pound max capacity at 50 psi the max pressure for the tire is 50 psi. I feel that I am running these tires at capacity all the time and that is asking for trouble. I can not find a load D tire in this size, so I am looking at larger tire sizes to give me a larger margin of capacity to hopefully increase the safety of towing this trailer. I have measured the wheel wells and have about 2inch of extra width on either side of the tire, so I have no issues going wider. I have 3.5inch of space above the tire to the wheel well and the suspension only has about 1 7/8inch travel remaining as its measured so I can go larger diameter too if needed. The 215/75d14s seem to increase capacity per tire from 1,760 to 1,870. Thats certainly helpful but not a huge gain for the near $300 ill be spending. Based on the measurements I provided, Im thinking I could step way up to the 225/75d15 tires and increase capacity from 1,760 to 2,540. For $300 it sounds good, Id like to run my tires significantly under gross and this would do it... BUT do you think they will fit? I am referencing your AM3S862 part number. Thanks for your opinion. I will order immediately based on your expert recommendation as I have a trip coming up.
asked by: Brad S
Expert Reply:
Your existing tires are about 8 inches wide by about 26 to 26-1/2 inches in diameter. The larger 225/75-15 would be about 1/2 inch wider and around 28 inches in diameter, which would only use 3/4 to 1 inch of the available 3-1/2 inches of clearance you mentioned.. From the clearances you mentioned, it sounds like the # AM3S862 would work well for you.
This being said, I would recommend you go with a wheel/tire combo that uses a radial tire, like part # AM32459. The combo has a C load rating, and is rated at 2150 lbs at 50 psi and would provide the cushion you are looking for. A radial tire will typically be a bit more flexible, allowing for greater ground contact which leads to better tread wear characteristics. A radial tire will usually run cooler, which will lead to longer tire life as long as they are not overloaded. The tire should be kept fully inflated to the air pressure listed on the sidewall, as opposed to a passenger vehicle tire which can be inflated to a particular range.
Please keep in mind, using tires rated higher than the capacity of your trailer WILL NOT increase your trailer capacity. You will still be limited by the capacity of your axle and suspension.
I have linked you to an FAQ article about trailer tires that you might find helpful.
Products Referenced in This Question
Karrier ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire with 15" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Radial Tire
- Load Range C
- 225/75-15
- 15 Inch
- M - 81 mph
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Powder Coat
- Kenda
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Loadstar ST225/75D15 Bias Trailer Tire with 15" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Bias Ply Tire
- Load Range D
- 225/75-15
- 15 Inch
- M - 81 mph
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Powder Coat
- Kenda
more information >
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on Trailer Tires and Wheels
Les B.
6/27/2020
Would new wheels be needed to go to the 15s?