When Replacing Just 2 Tires on Tandem Axle Trailer Which Axle Should the New Tires Go On

Updated 02/09/2016 | Published 02/08/2016

Question:

I am replacing all four tires on a used tandem axle trailer. I have two used off of my dads 5th wheel travel trailer and two brand new tires, was wondering which I should put on the front axle and which on the rear axle. I am replacing all due to the tires were dry rotted but no worse visible wear on either set of old tires .

asked by: Perry

Expert Reply:

I would definitely replace all tires at the same time if possible but if you can't then put the new tires on the axle that has brakes, if either have brakes. If both have brakes then put them on the rear axle if it is a regular straight axle; but if the trailer uses torsion axles put them on the front axle.

If the trailer does not have any brakes then I would put the new tires on the front axle since it generally carries more of the load than the rear axle.

While having all matching tires is not as critical on trailers as it is on vehicles you still could see some problems. Differences in tread pattern, load capacity, and construction type can lead to uneven tire wear, tracking problems, over heating, and suspension issues.

expert reply by: Michael H