Can Different Load Range Trailer Tires Be Mixed on Tandem Trailer

Updated 07/06/2017 | Published 07/04/2017

Question:

Is it okay to have 2 f rated tires on the back axel and 2 e rated tires on the front axle of a tandem horse trailer?

asked by: Greg

Expert Reply:

It is okay to have different load range tires on each axle of a tandem axle trailer on a temporary basis but I do not recommend using the trailer in this configuration in the long term. Also, it is never a good idea to mix tires of different sizes.

The lower-rated tires will run hotter than the higher rated ones. As temperatures change tires' handling performance can change too. The lower-rated tires could potentially be more likely to fail and could cause trailer tracking problems. Ideally all four tires will have the same Load Range.

ALL trailer tires should ALWAYS be fully-inflated to the maximum psi pressure noted on the tire sidewall. Trailer tires can deliver their rated weight and speed performance only when fully inflated.
I linked two articles on trailer tires that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Adam R