Should Trailer Tire PSI Ratings Change Based On The Load

Question:

What is the recommended PSI for normal load, not max load ? Regarding the ST215/75R14 Kenda KE77JR

asked by: Dan S

Expert Reply:

Hi Dan,

Trailer tires are designed to be filled to their max cold psi rating. Anything below this would place you in a gray area in terms of capacity. Trailer tires get hot as they roll and every 10 degrees the temperature increases will increase the psi by 1. The cold rating is put in place so that the tire will be a safe psi rating when it heats up and the psi increases.

The Karrier ST215/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire with 14" Aluminum Wheel # KE77JR has an 1,870lb capacity at 75 psi. This means that anything below 75 psi would decrease the capacity. Going over could overinflate the tires and cause uneven wear, bouncing, and possibly a blow out. You'll want to keep the psi level at the manufacturer's recommendation.

expert reply by: Kevin C