Can Changing From Bias Ply to Radial Trailer Tires Contribute to Trailer Sway

Updated 04/29/2011 | Published 04/28/2011

Question:

I am having what I believe to be abnormal sway. I put new st radials on and I notice the old tires were D or bias ply. do the radials contribute to the sway? both are load range c.

asked by: Cliff

Expert Reply:

There can be many factors that lead to trailer sway. In this case, the new tires have a lower load rating. If they are being overloaded, that could cause some problems. You will also want to make sure they are inflated to their maximum rated psi as indicated on the tire sidewall.

Radial tires trend to track better than bias ply tires so I do not think the different style is leading to the problem. If the tires are a different size than what was on the trailer, that could lead to a difference in ride quality as well. Proper loading of the trailer is always your best defense against sway. You will want a balanced load, so you can try rearranging things on the trailer for a better ride.

Cross winds and passing big rigs will also cause a trailer to sway. When this happens it is best to have a sway control system. The best sway control systems are dual-cam systems because they are pro-active and stop trailer sway before it starts.

expert reply by: Michael H