What is the Correct psi for 235/80-16 Trailer Tires?

Updated 04/09/2018 | Published 04/06/2018

Question:

I just got a new set of tires for my toy hauler. 235/80/16. Max load is 3050 at 80psi. i have a triple axle trailer, so if i do the math right, at max psi, trailer load to support would be around 18,000 pounds? My trailer is only about 12,500 pounds fully loaded. I set tire pressure at 75 on our first trip, and noticed way, way, way more sway then ever before. My local RV store said the tire pressure may bee too high and the tires are riding high and narrow? How do i calculate what psi i should be running?

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

You are always going to want to inflate your trailer tires to the max psi for the best performance. Your 235/80-16 tires should be inflated to 80 psi, even though your tires are going to have a much higher overall capacity than what your actual load is. Trailer tires are going to perform the best at all times when inflated to their max psi as listed on the tire.

Additionally, with a trailer as heavy as what you are hauling I strongly recommend using a weight distribution system which will either greatly control or prevent sway altogether. I've added a link to some help articles on trailer tires and weight distribution systems and if you are interested let me know and I'll be happy to make a recommendation for you. To get the right system you would only need to know your total tongue weight (TTW), which is the tongue weight of your fully loaded and ready to go trailer plus the weight of any cargo behind the rear axle of your tow vehicle.

expert reply by: Kyle S