Why Do Trailer Tires Have Higher PSI Listing Than Passenger Vehicle Tires

Updated 04/07/2018 | Published 04/06/2018

Question:

I noticed on a lot of wheels, they are stamp maximum air pressure 35#. The 225/75/15 10 ply tires show around 60#. Just wondering????

asked by: Carl C

Expert Reply:

Passenger vehicle tires do typically have a have a recommended psi of between 30 and 35 psi, like what you mentioned in your question. Special Trailer tires, however, like the Loadstar ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire w/ White Wheel # AM3S870 that you were looking at will have much higher maximum psi listings. This is simply because trailer tires are built with a thicker and stronger sidewall, enabling them to handle higher air pressure along with higher loads.

The above mentioned Provider tire is an 8-ply tire with a 2,540 pound maximum load at 65 psi. The tire also features an excellent speed rating of 81 mph. Please note that trailer tires should always be inflated to the maximum psi listed on the sidewall.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this tire and wheel combo, along with a couple articles on trailer tires and wheels that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R