Can You Upgrade Tires To Increase Weight Capacity of a Trailer

Updated 07/16/2021 | Published 07/15/2021

Question:

I am trying to upgrade a utility trailer to carry more weight. A recent post from an “E trailer rep said” . If this isnt enough you can upgrade to a 225/75-15, the Provider ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire part # TTWTRTM2257515D which will provide a 2,540 lb per tire weight capacity. My question is this my trailer placard says the trailer as is, is rated for 1,850 single. Does the placard mean 1 the trailer is rated for 1,850 # per single axle, or 2 1,,850# per tire. The trailer has a single axle, so, is this saying the trailer is rated at 1,850 # total, or 2x 1,850 # per tire which would yield 3,700# total? Sorry a bit confused, thanks fir any clarification.

asked by: Joe

Expert Reply:

The weight capacity will be limited by your lowest rated component which may or may not be the tires. We don't recommend increasing weight capacity beyond what is specified by the manufacturer. The figures you'll need to keep in mind are Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC) and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The CCC is how much you can load on the trailer and the GVWR is the most it can ever weigh. If these figures are not listed on the trailer you'll have to reach out to the trailer manufacturer for them. The figures you're referencing are just telling you the recommended tire capacity for the trailer with the above in mind.

That said, it is still possible for the tires to be the weak point so in which case it can make sense to upgrade and in which case we have plenty of options based on size which I have listed for you.

expert reply by: Conner L