Can Bias Spare Tire Be Compatible With Radial Tires on Trailer

Updated 02/26/2018 | Published 02/25/2018

Question:

I bought a new tire and wheel to use as a spare. I didn’t realize it was a D and not an R tire until I got home. Can I still use it in an emergency?

asked by: David W

Helpful Expert Reply:

The short answer is you do what you need to do in an emergency. The slightly longer answer is that it isn't ideal to use different styles of tires on your trailer as they will ride differently. They will have different speed abilities as well as the bias construction versus the radial construction will make the tires function differently. I recommend changing your spare to match your current tires in brand, style, etc. Ideally rotating the tires on your trailer with your spare will give you the best option when something goes bad and you need the spare.

I've attached an article with an explanation of the differences between the two tire style compositions.

expert reply by: Jason S