Is a 10 PSI Increase in Trailer Tire Pressure Normal from Heat Created by Driving

Updated 04/23/2019 | Published 04/22/2019

Question:

I recently purchased high quality trailer tires and a new Trailer Pressure Monitoring System TPMS to monitor my tires while driving. As recommended, I set the max pressure alarm on the TPMS to ~12-15 over the max tire pressure rating. I have ST type tires and the max pressure is 80psi, so I set the tire pressure at 80psi and the max pressure alarm on the TPMS to 91-92 psi. I find that under normal driving conditions good highway and average temps my Max Tire Pressure Alarm will sound at the recommended setting as the max pressure is exceeded by 1-2 psi. I have already checked the trailer weight and it does not exceed the GVWR, thus Im curious how best to address this alarm issue? Should I just increase the max pressure setting or do I need to address some other aspect of my set up to avoid this from happening in the future?

asked by: Jerry K

Expert Reply:

As long as you aren't exceeding the speed rating of the tires which would cause them to get to an excessive heat you are fine. Trailer tires are designed to be inflated to their max PSI rating when cold and then the pressure increase from heat from the road is normal and safe. You just need to verify you aren't exceeding the speed and weight rating and you are safe and would want to increase that alarm's threshold.

expert reply by: Jameson C