Can I Use 15 Inch Bias Ply Tires On Utility Trailer During Long Highway Trips

Question:

I have read all the articles and understand the differences between bias and radial tires. What I cant find is if it is safe to tow a utility trailer for a long trip on the highway with bias tires. The trailer has 15 inch and rated at 2100 pounds load plus 900 pound trailer for max 3000 pounds. I would have 2600 pounds on trailer. All the articles say if you tow a lot go to radials for tread wear but no one explains what if most of your towing is shorter runs but have one or two 800 + mile trips are bias tires safe or will a single long trip on bias tires be too risky and for that invest in radials. Please help clarify

asked by: Jer

Expert Reply:

The issue with using bias ply tires on long highway trips is that they tend to run much hotter than a radial ply tire. The temperature inside of the tire may not seem like a big deal but this is one of the number one reasons that a trailer tire fails. Therefore, if you know you will be using the trailer for long highway trips I recommend you switch out the bias ply tires for radial ply tires. The other added benefit you will receive when switching from bias to radial ply is an increased speed rating which is needed for the highway. Most bias ply tires only have a 65 mph speed rating whereas radial ply tires can go as high as 87 mph or more.

I recommend the Provider Radial Trailer Tire part # TR20515D for 205/75-15 in load range d (2,150 lbs) and the Provider Radial Trailer Tire part # TTWTRTM2257515D for 225/75-15 in load range d (2,540 lbs). These are great middle of the road tires that won't break the bank and they have an 81 mph speed rating.

expert reply by: Conner L