Causes of Trailer Tire Dry Rot and Recommendation to Replace ST205/75R15 Tires

Updated 05/22/2019 | Published 05/21/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Provider ST205/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D

(1114)

$139.98

Adco Ultra Tyre Gard RV Tire Covers for 27" to 29" Tires - Single Axle - Black - Qty 2

(949)

$43.25

Question:

I bought a trailer with Carlisle tires on it. All four tires have severe dry rot cracks. An older trailer of mine with Goodyear Marathon tires have no dry rot. I am replacing all 8 tires and I am not aware of any rating that takes dry rot into account. Can you give me any advice?

asked by: Sean P

Expert Reply:

Dry rot on trailer tires is caused by storage/exposure in excessive heat and sun, an overall lack of use, or low inflation on the tires. While I will say that the Goodyear tires on your older trailer are probably of better quality than the Carlisles that came with your new one, it's much more likely that their dry rot was the result of the previous owner's storage situation along with how much he actually pulled the trailer around than the difference in brand/construction between the two sets.

If the trailer is equipped with ST205/75R15 size tires such as the unit you were looking at then I highly recommend replacing them with the Takmaster Provider ST205/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D
Item # TR20515D (just let me know if you have a different size).

I have attached a short video review that you can check out as well.

If you don't have them already I also recommend using tire covers when the trailer is in storage. This is one of the best ways to prevent dry rot on trailer tires. For the ST205/75R15 tires the Adco Ultra Tyre Gard - Black # 290-3973 will work perfectly. These covers (2 are included) feature a heavy-duty, water-repellent construction and the bungee-ball cords will help to create a snug fit. Black color covers like these will also do a better job of absorbing UV rays so they can't make their way to the tires.

expert reply by: Chris R