Cant ST235/85R16 Tires be Used in Place of LT235/85-16 Tires

Question:

Original tire is LT 235x85x16 rated at 3750 #. LT is a truck tire? Can I switch to your favorite rated ST??

asked by: David W

Expert Reply:

LT does indicate light truck which are sometimes found on trailers and RVs. You can switch to an ST235/85R16, # AM10501, which is rated for 3,960 pounds at 110 psi.

As an ST (special trailer) tire, you will always need to inflate them to the maximum psi indicated on the tire. This is because trailer tires have a thicker sidewall than passenger vehicle tires to handle more vertical load. And if they are under inflated, due to the thicker sidewall they will generate excessive heat which is the number 1 enemy of tires.

expert reply by: Michael H