Boat Trailer Tires Showing Uneven Wear and Blowing Out on1995 Skeeter Trailer

Question:

I have a 1995 Skeeter boat and trailer. I bought in 1997. Total weight w/ the Steel trailer is about 3300#. The trailer is a single axcle. Every 3 years i will get a tire blow out. I pealed one of the tires this past weekend and it distroided my finder. The tires have a very small wair on the inside. Would it be a bent axle?

asked by: Wayne L

Expert Reply:

There are several possibilities for the tire wear and blowouts you're having with your 1995 Skeeter boat trailer.

When a tire wears more on the inside edge than the outside edge this can indicate that the suspension (and axle) are overloaded. If the axle is bent (either from being overloaded or from damage) this too could cause the uneven wear. Since the trailer is about 20 years old it is entirely possible that suspension components could simply be worn out and are no longer maintaining proper alignment.

When a tire wears unevenly one sidewall will build up much more heat. This is likely to be the cause for the tire failures you've had since heat is the enemy of trailer tires.

You might inspect your trailer's suspension for any signs of worn components. If the shackle straps' holes have become enlarged from friction, and especially if their bolt holes have become egg-shaped, then suspension alignment problems can result. If the spring's bushings are worn out, this also could lead to alignment problems.

The linked article on trailer suspensions may be helpful to you as well.

expert reply by: Adam R