Can Trailer Tires Be Aired Down When Trailer is Towed Unloaded

Published 11/27/2019

Question:

looking to replace 4.80-12 on a small utility trailer. didnt know to always inflate to max... even being a small trailer 4 x 6 i haul a real varied type of weight loads. being so small , when its empty, to keep it from bouncing around , or a light load, do you adjust air pressure? or just leave them at max, and ride!?

asked by: Jeff K

Expert Reply:

We typically recommend that trailer tires remain fully inflated to the maximum air pressure listed on the tire's sidewall. When the trailer is unloaded, if the fully inflated tires cause the trailer to bounce around in an obnoxious fashion it wold be okay to air them down a bit. Keep in mind though, if you forget to re-inflate them before using the trailer again, you'll be increasing the likelihood of having a blowout, which is why we tend to recommend leaving them fully inflated if at all possible. Under-inflated tires lead to increased heat build-up, which is one of the number one causes of premature tire failure.

If you click the provided links, you can see our selection of 4.80-12 trailer tires and wheel/tire combos. Be sure to choose a tire with the proper load rating so that the capacity for both tires meets or exceeds the GVWR of the trailer. We offer the wheel/tire combos in 4 on 4 or 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt patterns, so you'll want to choose the correct bolt pattern, as well.

expert reply by: Mike L