Troubleshooting Tread Wear in Center of 4.80-12 Trailer Tires

Updated 10/18/2017 | Published 10/17/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Americana Metal, Bolt-In Valve Stem - 1-1/4" Long

(617)

$21.95

Question:

Hope you can help with strange tread wear on my EcoTrail ST Load Range B listed as 785 lbs @ 60 PSI. They on a 2015 16 ft Karavan boat trailer. I know trailer tires should be inflated to the max, so Ive consistently kept the pressure at 55-60 but the tread wear see attached picture looks like its been way overinflated, with 1/8 inch tread depth remaining on the outer treads but nearly bald on the middle two. Id really appreciate any advice on what Im doing wrong. Thanks!

asked by: Tom B

Helpful Expert Reply:

The inflation is not the issue on your trailer tires and you are correct to always run trailer tires at their max psi when filled cold (prior to trip). With the tread in the middle wearing faster than the outside edges, the only issue if this is premature has to do with heat. Most likely this is due to speeds exceeding the speed rating on your tires or overloading. If there is not a speed rating listed on your tires, than 65 mph max is what is standard.

For your replacements, I recommend the Taskmaster 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire - Load Range C # TTWSF48012C. These tires have a slightly higher load rating of 990 pls at 90 psi and will have a 6 ply rating. They are rated for speeds of up to 81 mph. These tires will require a higher rated valve stem than you most likely have on your wheels. I recommend the Americana Metal, Bolt-In Valve Stem - 1-1/4" Long - Over 100 psi # AM20906 as a replacement.

expert reply by: Jason S