Recommended Pressure to Inflate Trailer Tires for Trip

Updated 07/28/2017 | Published 07/27/2017

Question:

Good Day, I have a trailer that can carry a load of 2,000 lbs when fully loaded. The trailer itself weights 400 lbs. The tire info is: Brand : Carlisle Model: Sports Trail Size: 4.80 - 12 Load Range : C Max Load: 990 lbs Pressure : 90 psi when cold I am planning a 2 hour trip. What would be the best pressure to inflate the tire?

asked by: Fred

Expert Reply:

Special trailer tires, like the existing Carlisle tires on your trailer, should always be inflated to their maximum air pressure. The maximum psi of 90 that you mentioned should always be maintained, regardless of the load on your trailer or the distance that you will be traveling. This will ensure that the tires can hold its listed load capacity while performing at their best.

If a trailer tire is inflated to a lower air pressure than the maximum, the amount of weight the tire can carry will be reduced to an unknown amount and may eventually lead to the sidewall of the tire heating up and causing the tire to fail.

I have attached a couple of articles on trailer tires and wheels that you might also find helpful, as they do differ in a few other ways when compared to standard passenger vehicle tires.

expert reply by: Chris R