Do Higher Trailer Load Ranges Allow for Higher Speed Ratings

Updated 07/01/2015 | Published 06/30/2015

Question:

I have a Dutchman Camper Trailer with 530-12 tires on it. i purchased 3 Carlye tires in 2011`and all three are cracked on the side wall extensively. I am interested in replacing them, and have read that the load D tires are the best for high speed. I normally drive as 70 on the highway. Am I overdoing it with the load D tires and wasting money? How can I be sure I wont be replacing the tires in three years due to excessive cracks in the side wall? I was looking at your Kenda K353 530-12 load range D tires. Also are there any brand of trailer tires made in the US?

asked by: John J

Expert Reply:

Load Range for trailer tires has to do with the weight capacity. The higher the Load Range the higher the weight capacity and usually the higher the PSI recommendation for the tire. Going with a higher Load Range will not give you the ability to travel at higher speeds. 65 miles per hour is typically the standard max speed for trailer tires. Exceeding that figure will cause excessive heat to build up and increase the risk of tire failure regardless of Load Range.

Cracking on the sidewall of a tire is usually due to age and exposure to harsh weather. Going with a newer tire will help tremendously. Typically trailer tires are good for 6-8 years before they should get replaced due to age.

The part # AM10064 that you referenced has an 840 lb capacity when inflated to 55 psi. If that capacity would be high enough for your trailer then this tire would work well for you.

It is getting increasingly harder and harder to find trailer tires that are made in the US as most manufacturers are going overseas so they can stay competitive on price.

expert reply by: Jameson C