Can Trailer Tires Be Inflated to Below Their Recommended Max PSI

Updated 05/15/2018 | Published 05/12/2018

Question:

My 5th wheel trailer came with st235/80r16 load range E inflated to 80 psi. If I purchase st235/80r16 load range G tires should they be inflated to 80psi or the max of 110 psi? The reason for the change is I thought the G rated tires would be better and safer? The trailer weight has not changed still GVWR of 12400 lbs..and 5200 lbs per axle. Thanks for your reply.

asked by: Tom G

Expert Reply:

Trailer tires should always be inflated to the max psi as listed on the tire's sidewall. This is essentially because their listed load capacity is dependent on them being inflated to this level. Inflating a trailer tire to below the max recommendation will lower its capacity to an unknown number, potentially allowing you to overload the tires with the weight of your trailer.

Upgrading to a Load Range G tire on your trailer is a good idea. This will give you a larger margin for error between the trailer's loaded weight and what the tires can handle. If they are supporting less weight than what they can handle, this will also allow them to run a bit cooler, which can result in a longer lifespan.

I recommend the Provider ST235/80R16 Radial Trailer Tire # PRG80235. This is an excellent radial tire that features a maximum load of 4,080 pounds at 110 psi (or 3,640 pounds at 110 psi for dual tire applications) and a speed rating of 81 mph. I have attached a short video demonstration on this tire that you can also check out.

expert reply by: Chris R