Trailer Tire Air Pressure Recommendations

Updated 02/10/2014 | Published 02/09/2014

Question:

I have a roadmaster load star tire for a trailor 20.5x8x10. Tire states max load 1105 @50 psi. What is inflation pressure to use on these tires. Load range G.

asked by: Chris O

Helpful Expert Reply:

Special trailer tires should be inflated to their maximum air pressure. The value for the maximum air pressure should be listed along with the value for the maximum load on the tire's sidewall. These values will usually designate the maximum load at a maximum psi. For example, if the tire is rated at 1,105 lbs maximum at 50 psi, the tire can carry 1,105 lbs of weight if the air pressure is at the maximum of 50 psi. At the maximum air pressure, the tires will perform and wear best, and get the best gas mileage.

If a trailer tire is inflated to a lower air pressure than the maximum, the amount of weight that the tire can carry will be reduced. If a heavier load is put on the trailer tire than what is recommended for that air pressure, the sidewall of the tire could heat up and cause the tire to fail.

You should always inflate your tires when they are cold.

If a tire is over-inflated, it will wear more in the center of the tread, all the way around the tire. If a tire is under-inflated, it will wear on the outside edges of the tread, all the way around the tire.

I attached an FAQ article on trailer tires for you to check out also.

expert reply by: Jameson C