Will a Higher Load Range Tire Help Eliminate Cracking of Sidewalls on Loaded Trailer Being Stored

Updated 07/03/2012 | Published 06/29/2012

Products Featured in This Question

Loadstar ST205/75D15 Bias Trailer Tire - Load Range C

(3847)

$79.91

Classic Accessories RV Tire Covers for 24" to 27" Tires - Single Axle - White - Qty 2

(759)

$42.19

Question:

We have currently load range c tires on our utility trailer. We use this trailer infrequently but keep it loaded with items. We have experience some cracking of the sidewalls after the trailer has sat for the winter. Would a tire with a load range D be better for us? The trailer is holding some heavy items. Thanks

asked by: Colleen

Expert Reply:

When tires sit on a trailer that is used infrequently it will cause the tires to dry rot or crack on the sidewall from being exposed to the weather and not being moved. It will also increase the problem if it has a heavy load on the tires when being stored.

Steps you can take to keep the tires from cracking is to put the trailer on blocks or jack stands under the axles to take the weight off of the tires. Lower the air pressure (make sure to inflate the tires back to maximum psi when using the trailer). Keep the tires covered with a tire cover like Tire Covers, part # 052963762402, to protect from the UV light of the sun.

Changing to a higher load range tire will not really help keep the tires from cracking. It is more the tire being exposed to the elements than the load of the trailer. You will still get cracking on the tires with a higher load range tire.

The ST205/75D15 tires, part # AM1ST92, that you have referenced is a load range C tire that has a maximum weight capacity of 1,820 lbs at 50 psi. You will also want to make sure that you are not overloading the tires on the trailer.

expert reply by: Jeff D