Comparing Modular and Spoke Wheels, Radial and Bias Tires, and Different Load Ranges

Published 01/08/2015

Question:

Regarding tire/wheel combos for a two axle / 3 horse gooseneck trailer:...three questions 1. What is the difference between modular vs spoke wheels? 2. For primary high speed hiway use, should I go with bias or radial tires and why? 3. If I move up from D to E rating, will that give me a little better blow out protection when carrying a full load?

asked by: A,b,

Expert Reply:

The difference between modular and spoke wheels is the appearance. In different parts of the country one will be more popular than the other. That is really the only difference.

For highway use I recommend radial tires. Radial tires run cooler and track better than bias ply tires. Bias ply tires are better for non-paved roads.

Going from a D to an E load range means that the ply rating will be higher on the E thus it will be a little stronger. It will not increase the weight capacity of the trailer since everything else, suspension, axles, will still be the same.

Trailer tires should always be inflated to the maximum psi as indicated on the tire. This is because trailer tires are built with a thicker sidewall when compared to passenger vehicle tires. Because of the thicker sidewall, if under inflated the tire will generate excess heat and that is one of the main causes of tire failure.

I have linked our trailer tire help article to the right for you.

expert reply by: Michael H