Do I Need To Upgrade Wheels To Account for a Higher Psi When Changing Tire Size

Updated 04/22/2019 | Published 04/20/2019

Products Featured in This Question

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

(2230)

$189.80

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

(600)

$21.95

Question:

I have a 2014 grand design reflection 337 max load of 13995 lbs with 235/80r16 tires. I would like to use the taller 235/85r16 tires. my concern is. can you run the 85rs inflated to the 80 psi trailer recommendation or would I have to check my wheel rating to see if the 110 psi of the 85rs would be compatible? according to that the tire psi would be over inflated by 30 psi according to the trailer manufacturer? 30 psi under inflated for the tire manufacturer? Thanks

asked by: Jim

Expert Reply:

For starters, not all 235/80-16 tires have the same max psi rating. However, you are correct in that the wheel you have now must be rated for the max psi of the new tire size. With that being said, the majority of times that a wheel will be limited to a certain psi it is because of the valve stem. Therefore, if you upgrade the valve stem to part # AM20906 which has a 200 max psi rating then you can run any 235/80-16 tire you want on your factory wheels. The majority of rubber valve stems max out at 80-100 psi.

expert reply by: Conner L