Can You Replace ST215/75R17.5 Trailer Tires on Front Axle Only on Tandem Axle Trailer

Question:

Ive got relatively new tires on a tandem axle fifth wheel trailer - 2 years old, 4,000 miles. One of the tires doesnt look right - has a hop. I would like to buy two new tires of a better brand and put them on the front axle. The new and old tires are the same size, load rating, speed rating, ply construction, thread pattern, and pressure spec. Any issues or concerns? The tires would be 215/75R17.5, 16 ply, H load rating, L speed rating (75 mph) Thanks.

asked by: Tom

Expert Reply:

Yes you can; if you want to change the 215/75R17.5 tires on just the front axle of your tandem axle trailer you can without issue. The absolute ideal would be to change all four at the same time for perfect, even wear across the tires, but it isn't necessary so long as the tires on the rear axle are in good shape.

In fact, if you are going to change tires on one of the axles, you would want it on the front axle, as that is the one that bears the most most. And we do have a really good option for new 215/75R17.5 tires:

- Provider 215/75R17.5 Radial Trailer Tire # TTWP15175

The Provider # TTWP15175 are 16 ply, load range H (4,805 lb capacity), but have an 81 mph speed rating (which is speed rating M) so it's a bit higher than what you were looking for. This will give you a high-quality tire that is great for longer trips.

expert reply by: Kyle S