Recommended 235/80R16 Tires to Replace LT Tires on 5th Wheel Trailer

Updated 04/30/2020 | Published 07/19/2017

Question:

I bought a used 12,000 pound fifth wheel and on the first cross country trip I had multiple tire failures and had to put LT 235 80 R16 E tires on both axles. Can I continue to run the LT tires or am I asking for trouble?

asked by: Roger

Expert Reply:

I definitely recommend upgrading the LT tires on your trailer to Special Trailer (ST) tires. Special Trailer tires are specifically designed to handle higher loads and air pressures. This is because they are constructed with thicker and stronger sidewalls when compared to standard automobile or truck tires. I do not recommend continuing to use LT tires on your trailer.

I recommend looking at the Westlake ST235/80R16 Radial Trailer Tire # LHWL401. This is the same size tire that you currently have mounted on your trailer. The tire has a maximum load of 3,520 pounds at 80 psi and an excellent maximum speed rating of 75 mph.

The thing that sets the Westlake tires apart is the length and content of their included warranty. The tire will come with a 5-year warranty along with complimentary roadside assistance for 2 years. This means if you happen to have a flat tire, all you need to do is call the helpline and a technician will come out to change the tire for you. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The best way to extend the life of your trailer tires is to always have them inflated to their listed maximum psi while making sure to remain under their load capacity and speed limit. I have attached a short video review of this tire along with a couple of articles on trailer tires and wheels that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R

Ed J.

4/29/2020

what country are these tires made in

Chris R.

4/30/2020

The Westlake ST235/80R16 # LHWL401 are made overseas in China. If you want something that's made in the US we do have the Goodyear Endurance # 724858519. The Endurance line actually represents the only radial ply trailer tires available that are made domestically.