Bulges in Sidewall of Goodyear ST225/75R15 Trailer Tire

Updated 08/28/2018 | Published 08/27/2018

Question:

My 40foot gooseneck trailer tri axle rear tire did the same thing as the above post. Tire grew in the center, or egged shape and was running hot. Start at 65 lbs. Pressure before trip on all six tires. When we checked it at the rest stop, 5 tires were cold, rear one was hot and built up to 75lbs. Let some air out to 65 lbs. In hopes to make it home after the 1000 mile trip. Didnt make it. Thinking of changing all 6 tires to a F rated to eliminate any issue somewhat. This trailer is stored inside year around with few miles on it. But tires are 5 years old. As would my new F rated trailer tires need replacing every 5 years. Sound rediculous to me?

asked by: Jim

Helpful Expert Reply:

If there are bulges in the tire then this is an indication of a broken band and the tire should no longer be used. Please keep in mind that Goodyear Endurance Trailer tires use a unique fill chart which correlates to the weight of the trailer and size of the tire. The broken band could be a result of overloading the trailer, improper air pressure, or just a defect in the tire. Due to the age of your tires I would say they are time to be replaced. Please keep in mind that if the tires are not stored properly then this could shorten their life.

For replacement, I recommend using the Westlake ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire part # LHWL304 which have a load range E rating. You do not need load range F tires unless your trailer exceeds 16,980 lbs. These tires have a 75 mph speed rating and come with an unheard of five year warranty with two years having complimentary roadside assistance. If your RV or trailer has a flat tire, call the help line and a technician will come change the flat for you. You can call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year from anywhere in the United States, Canada, or Puerto Rico.

Our experience shows that the most beneficial way to store a trailer tire over the winter or multiple month periods of non-use involves taking the tires off the trailer and storing them stacked in a cool and dry dark environment. You will also want to let out some of the air using this method. The other option would be to raise the trailer up so the tires are not making contact with the ground. It doesn't matter whether you leave the air in or take it out as long as the tires are not bearing a load.

The reason for this is that the sun's UV ray can create an excessive amount of wear on the rubber sidewall causing them to crack in addition to flat spotting when left inflated with a bearing load.

expert reply by: Conner L