Do Both Tires on Axle Need to Be Replaced At Same Time

Updated 05/27/2021 | Published 05/26/2021

Question:

Have just replaced one axle of a tandem wheel trailer. I have one tire that wore excessively on the old axle. Can I just replace that tire or should I also replace the on the other side that is not worn?

asked by: Butch T

Expert Reply:

The best practice is honestly to replace tires in pairs. That way they should wear at the same rate and they'll be on the same replacement rotation.

This being said, if the tires on that axle were still pretty new (a year or less old) and didn't have much in the way of miles on them, it'd be acceptable to replace just one. You'll want to use a replacement tire of the same size, same load and speed rating and same ply style (radial vs bias ply).

I've linked to some articles about trailer wheels and tires which you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L