Determining The Actual Weight On Your Trailer Tires

Updated 03/08/2017 | Published 03/07/2017

Question:

if a tire is rated to 1300# and it is a sgl axel does that mean it can tow 2600# or do u have to deduct the trailer weight?

asked by: Tim H

Expert Reply:

If you have a tire rated with a maximum load of 1320 lbs like the Kenda # AM3H410 you would double that maximum capacity on a single axle like you stated. That maximum load capacity is including any and all weight on the tire, so you would need to deduct the trailer weight as it sits on that tire and axle. For a best result, you would have to use a scale to weigh the axle when loaded without the tow vehicle on the scale but still connected and carrying the tongue weight...although this will only give you the tire weight on level surfaces and it would be greater weight going up a hill. The capacity of the tire does not mean that you can then carry that max weight if the trailer, the axle, or any components are rated at a lesser weight capacity. You would have to use the least capacity weight bearing of any component as the max capacity for weight.

I've attached a couple articles that may help.

expert reply by: Jason S