Is It Safe To Use Underrated Trailer Tires On A 2021 Forest River Impression?

Published 04/19/2023

Question:

I have a 2021 Forest River Impression 290VB Fifth Wheel. The Goodyear tires on this RV indicate: Max Load Single - 2830 lbs. @ 80 psi Max Load Dual - 2470 lbs. @ 80 psi. The Max Load Single - 2830 lbs. X 4 tires = 11320 lbs. The RV GVWR = 12,200 lbs. Is this safe? Should the 4 tires, Max Load be /= 12,200 lbs.? Thank you for your help.

asked by: GLENN S

Helpful Expert Reply:

Your tires aren't really underrated, remember that a portion (around 15 to 20% on a 5th wheel) of the trailer weight will be on the tow vehicle, so technically your tires aren't really under-rated.

A lot of 5th wheels come with tires rated for trailer weight minus tongue weight from the factory. That being said it's still not a horrible idea to upgrade your tires, so what I'd recommend checking out is something like theKarrier ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire # AM10501 which has a maximum single tire load capacity of 3,960-lb ( 3,960 x 4 = 15,840).

expert reply by: Bryce D