Trailer Tire Recommendation for a Boat Trailer with 5.30-12 Tires and Towing at Highway Speeds

Published 08/16/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Kenda Loadstar 5.30-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C

(2781)

$95.78

Kenda K353 Bias Trailer Tire - 5.30-12 - Load Range C

(3887)

$55.16

Kenda K353 Bias Trailer Tire - 5.30-12 - Load Range D

(3887)

$61.22

Kenda 5.30-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D

(7696)

$119.75

Question:

I have an old boat trailer with 530-12 tires on it with a load range rating of C. What is the maximum speed rating for C rating tires on your site? Do I need to use another size tire for highway speeds? Some tire ratings Ive seen for C say 37MPH max. I want to order two new tires but want to make sure I purchase the correct size for 60 or 70 MPH driving.

asked by: Larry K

Expert Reply:

All of the ST (Special Trailer) tires that we carry are DOT (Department of Transportation) rated for 65 miles per hour unless stated otherwise on the tire. It is not recommended to run a trailer tire at a higher speed than 65 miles per hour due to the heat buildup that will occur inside the tire and cause the tire to break down and cause the tire to fail.

All trailer tires are constructed with thicker sidewall dimensions for handling weight and are designed to be used at 65 miles per hour or less. This is why passenger tires are not recommended for use on trailers. We do not have a trailer tire recommended to 70 mile per hour speeds.

If the gross weight of your boat trailer is 2,090 lbs or less then the Kenda Load Range C, 5.30-12, Trailer Tire, # AM10066, would be the correct choice. This tire is also available with the wheel as # AM30820, which is the part that you referenced.

If the gross weight of your boat trailer is over 2,090 lbs but less than 2,500 lbs, then the Kenda Load Range D, 5.30-12, Trailer Tire, # AM10068, would be the correct choice. This tire is also available with the wheel as # AM30859.