What Does Tire Capacity Difference Between Single and Dual Tires Mean

Updated 03/27/2019 | Published 03/26/2019

Question:

In your tire reviews, under specs, theres a maximum load capacity with ratings for single tire and dual tire. Does the dual tire rating apply to tires side-by-side like duallys or does it apply to tandem axles with single tires on each axle as on a fifth wheel? Or does it apply to both?

asked by: Ted B

Helpful Expert Reply:

The tire capacity difference for single and dual wheel setups is for dually and single wheel axles. It's not the difference between tandem axle and single axle trailers. For example compare these capacities for a tire:

Single tire: 3,420 lbs at 80 psi
Dual tires: 3,000 lbs at 80 psi

expert reply by: Jameson C