Trailer Tire Recommendation to Upgrade From 215/60-8 Tires

Question:

Hello: I have a snowmobile trailer I purchased in 2000 and have changed tires numerous times over the years. They just dont last. My tire size is 215-60-8. We trailer two 600-pound machines and some boxes of equipment from El Paso, Texas to Northern Wisconsin 4,000 round trip. In the past, with lighter machines, I used to get three trips. Now, I get one trip. I bought your Loadstar D-range, traveled in 2021, and 22. The front two tires had flat spots - which I discovered upon 2023 pre-trip inspection. Time constraints forced me to purchase Loadstar C-range, locally. I barely made it back, due to a right rear vehicle tire not trailer going flat every 35 miles. You can see the trailer tire result in the attached photo, same result for front left and rear right on a tandem unit. Tomorrow I leave again for Wisconsin, with the remaining two C-range great shape on the rear and the remaining, older great shape D-range on the front. Pray for me! Any thoughts on this? Also, I have considered going to a 10inch E-range same bolt pattern as I currently have 7inch of tire/trailer clearance. Please advise me as I will be buying from you upon return.

asked by: Paul V

Expert Reply:

In your case I do recommend going with the larger 205/65-10 tire size for a few reasons; you'll have a higher load rating and you'll have a higher speed rating. I will say it's important to make sure you have the tires filled to the proper psi rating on the sidewall of the tire. The photo you sent in looks like you have the tires overinflated which is why you're seeing that wear in the middle of the tread.

The Loadstar K399 Bias Trailer Tire - 205/65-10 # AM1HP56 has a load range of E (1,650 lbs at 90 psi) and is rated for 87 mph. This means that your tires will easily be able to handle the weight of your trailer and cargo, and you'll have a hard time exceeding the speed rating, which are the two most common reasons why tires wear down. This tire will have about a 2" larger diameter and is about the same width so you will have no issues with fitment.

To get this tire mounted on a wheel we have part # AM3H460 which has a 4 on 4" bolt pattern or part # AM3H480 which has a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern.

Attached are some videos for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G