Is A Load Range G Tire More Durable Than An E Range Tire?

Question:

Ive got a 5th wheel that is 11,000 lbs dry. The original equipment tire is the Goodyear Endurance 235 80R16 with an E rating. I see tires out there with higher load ratings and are 14 or 16 ply. They also are rated at 90 psi or more. Is a tire rated F or G always better than a tire rated at E? I am looking for something as bulletproof as possible. Ive changed too many trailer tires in my time.

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

Hey Mike thanks for your question. The short answer is yes, a higher rated tire like an F or G is going to be more durable or bulletproof than an E rated tire.

The Load range G tires for example the Provider ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire # TTWPRG235R16 has a 14 ply rating and is rated for 4,400 lbs at 110 psi. This means it has more layers of belt/cord than a 10 ply E rated tire, so they are able to bear more weight and hold more pressure.

Assuming your fifth wheel is a tandem axle, four G rated tires combine for 17,600 lbs of capacity. With your fifth wheel being only 11K dry you will not be pushing the tires as close to their max load which will effectively allow them to last longer. I also hate changing tires, so if the goal is to have a more durable tire that you will not have to change as often, the G range is what I recommend going with.

Unfortunately we do not have any Goodyear ST235/85R16 tires available at this time. The Provider ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire # TTWPRG235R16 that I mentioned above is a very solid alternative which will have all the specs that you are wanting. They are highway rated up to 81 mph and they come with a two year warranty.

expert reply by: Jesse M