Recommended Trailer Tires for Driving in Excessive Heat

Updated 06/30/2017 | Published 06/29/2017

Question:

I am trying to figure out what tires I should have on this trailer. Several of the folks I ride with have a similar trailer and have experienced blowouts on longer trips. I have a 10ply Load Range E Provider ST. I dont see a speed rating. I have asked around at numerous tire places and have received conflicting information and advice. I am planning a 13-14 hour trip in 100+ heat at times at interstate speeds. Any suggestions or information?

asked by: Chip T

Expert Reply:

The load range of a trailer tire has little impact on performance as long as it's rated high enough to handle the weight of the loaded trailer.

The biggest things to worry about are the speed rating and the maximum psi. Exceeding the maximum speed rating of a tire will cause it to heat up beyond what it's constructed to handle. If your tires don't have a speed rating listed on them then it's likely 65 mph. When replacing them you should find out the speed rating of the new tires and make sure they're rated high enough for you.

You want trailer tires to be inflated to their maximum psi when they're cold. Some people feel the need to under inflate their tires when driving through excessive heat when can often backfire on them. Under inflation is one of the main reasons for tire failure.

You'll also, as always, want to be mindful of the age of the tires as well. We generally recommend replacing any trailer tire that's 6 years old or more. Going on a trip that long in that heat could be too much for a 4 year old tire.

expert reply by: Charles S