Can I Use Load Range G Tires On a Wheel with Load Range E Tires

Updated 10/21/2025 | Published 04/03/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Provider HD ST235/80R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range G

(254)

$333.21

Americana Metal, Bolt-In Valve Stem - 1-1/4" Long

(609)

$21.95

Provider HD ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range G

(254)

$316.84

Question:

I am interested in a g rated tire for my fifth wheel. On the manufactures sticker on trailer it shows that E rated tires were standard on trailer. Also on sticker it shows rims as 16x6J. The 16 is wheel size, 6 is rim diameter. Is the Jinch the maximum load rating for the rim? The big question is, would I need to change rims for a Ginch rated tire due to higher tire pressures?

asked by: Dennis

Expert Reply:

The "J" that you are referring to has nothing to do with the load range but rather the shape of the bead on the trailer wheel. The main issues you are going to run into when upgrading to load range G tires is wheel capacity, not psi. The majority of 16x6 wheels with a 8 on 6-1/2" bolt pattern will be rated for enough to hold a load range G tire but if you instead have a 6 on 5-1/2" bolt pattern then we no not carry any wheels rated for enough to hold a load range G tire so I doubt yours are rated this high either. If this is the case then I recommend you stick with the load range E tires you have now. In order to fill your tires to the recommended psi you will also need the Americana Metal, Bolt-In Valve Stem part # AM20906.

For a load range G tire, we have part # PRG80235 which is a 235/80-16 option as well as a 235/85-16 option, part # TTWPRG235R16. The 235/80-16 option is rated up to 4,080 lbs and the 235/85-16 option is rated up to 4,400 lbs. They both have an 81 mph speed rating and come with a two year warranty.

expert reply by: Conner L

William H.

4/4/2020

You experts need to get together on PSI and rated rims. You stated 6 lug is not rated for a G rated Tire. Another expert says all 16 rims can handle the higher PSI? You both say we should use a bolt in valve stem.

Chris R.

4/6/2020

The 16" rim could handle the increased max psi of a higher load range tire (assuming the valve stem is appropriately rated - which can be replaced if needed) but it might not be able to match the actual load capacity of the new tire. Weight capacities aren't equal between all 16" rims, so if you can tell me what particular tire/wheel combo you're looking at I would be happy to verify if it's a good option.

Les L.

10/17/2025

I’m wanting to upgrade my tires ( ST 235/80R16) E rating to a G rated tire , my wheels are factory Aluminum with a rating of 3042# max load (stamped on back of wheel). From what you’re saying I would be ok to run a G rated tire on that wheel ? Or do I need to get new wheels that can handle those beefy tires and pressure.

Jon G.

10/17/2025

@LesL Wheels are really hit and miss when determining what their weight rating is. On wheels that have a listed weight rating, you need to abide by them. If a wheel doesn't have a weight rating stamped into it, we've been told it's safe to use with any tire that fits on it. Since your wheel won't be "hefty" enough for a G rated tire we'll need to get you new tires and wheels. Do you have a 6-lug bolt pattern or an 8-lug bolt pattern?

Les L.

10/17/2025

@JonG. 8 lug , That 3042# is for one wheel , so per axle is almost 6100# and it’s tandem so I’m looking at 12000 .. I’ve called quite a few tire places and they have said a G rated tire would be acceptable on those rims .. I also called and talked with someone @ Keystone about this , they said it would actually be better as long as you stay with the GVWR .. which on that trailer is a little over 12200 lbs . Not sure what to do now ? Really don’t want to purchase new wheels , just the tires .. thanks for your input

Jon G.

10/18/2025

@LesL Ah, yeah that makes sense actually. Like the max load rating is the full capacity, but if that full capacity isn't reached in the first place, then it really doesn't matter. With all of that in mind, I'd say as long as you aren't overloading past the 3,042 lbs then you're good to go!