Should Max PSI on Trailer Tire Sidewall Be Followed When Upgrading Load Range Capacity

Updated 11/04/2018 | Published 11/03/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Karrier KR18 ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range F

(2348)

$192.71

Karrier ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range E

(2348)

$194.90

Question:

I change form a C rating to an E rating on my trailer tires. Should I use the pressure on the side of the tire, even if the trailer does not weigh any more that when I was using the C rating.

asked by: Tony N

Expert Reply:

Almost all trailer tires are designed so that they should be inflated to the maximum psi listed on the tire sidewall regardless of the weight they are supporting. Inflating them to below this number will essentially reduce the tire's weight capacity to an unknown number, potentially leading to you inadvertently overloading the tires with the trailer's loaded weight.

For example the Kenda Karrier ST235/85R16 Radial Tire in Load Range E # AM10295 features a maximum load capacity of 3,640 pounds at 95 psi. You would always want to inflate them to 95 psi even if the weight of your trailer falls well under its load capacity.

I have attached a couple additional articles on trailer tires that you might also find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R