How Important is Speed Rating on Trailer Tire

Published 10/10/2019

Question:

If Westlake and Taskmaster are made by the same plant and are the same size, load capacity what makes one 62mph and the other 81mph? I have Westlake 17.5 with about 4000mi. Just bought the 5th wheel and can not change yet. Headed to Florida from Colorado in January. How important is this max of 62mph? Thanks

asked by: PHILIP A

Expert Reply:

Westlake and Taskmaster trailer tires actually aren't made under the same manufacturer, however a tire's specific speed rating is determined by a number of factors including construction, ply rating, testing, etc.

The primary cause for trailer tire failure is excessive heat, and exceeding a tire's maximum speed to can lead to this. Because of this it is extremely important to adhere to the speed limit on your particular Westlake tire. The manufacturer has deemed through testing that the tire shouldn't travel faster than 62 mph, and doing so could result in failure on the road.

If after your upcoming trip you want to switch to tires that have a higher speed rating, the Provider # TTWP15175 will work perfectly. This 215/75R17.5 radial ply tire features a maximum speed rating of 81 mph and a load capacity of 4,805 pounds at 123 psi.

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

expert reply by: Chris R