How Can I Stop Uneven Tire Wear On A 1988 Jayco Pop Up Camper?
Updated 02/17/2026 | Published 06/09/2024 >
Question:
I have a 1988 Jayco pop up camper. It has a Dexter torsion axle rated to 2300 pounds. Both tires are wearing excessively on the inside, but the passenger side was much worse . The people at the tire store felt that the axle may be bent. I checked the axle and it is straight. I read somewhter that after 20 to 25 years the rubber inside the the torsion axles degrades. I am trying to figure out if I need a new torsion axle to stop the tire wear.
asked by: George W
Expert Reply:
Hello George, thanks for reaching out. The most common causes for excessive wear on the inside edge of the tires are either a damaged or overloaded axle. If a trailer axle is overloaded it's center will bend down toward the road surface and this will change its geometry, causing the inside edges of the tires to make more contact with the road surface than the outside edges. A damaged or bent axle is not always visible to the naked eye. It could mean a damaged or bent spindle also. Since your axle is so old, we can't rule out the torsion rubber going bad either. Replacing the axle with a new one will definitely help put a stop to uneven tire wear. I do suggest that you be mindful of the axle weight capacity and be careful not to overload the axle. Also make sure all tires are inflated to the proper max PSI listed on the sidewall.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Karrier KR18 ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range F
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire Only
- Radial Tire
- Load Range F
- 235/85-16
- 16 Inch
- M - 81 mph
- Kenda
more information >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Trailer Tire Recommendation for Tire Size ST235/85R16
- Q&A: Recommended Tires To Replace Worn Out Provider HD ST235/85R16 That Wore Out Fast
- Q&A: Dimensions of the B&W Extend-A-Goose Gooseneck Coupler From the Bend in Upright to Bottom
- Q&A: Are Trailer Tires Better for a Trailer than Light Truck Tires
- Q&A: Karrier ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range F Maximimum Load PSI Rating
- Q&A: Do I Need Brass or Aluminum Transmitters with my TireMinder TPSM System
- Q&A: Wheel and Tire Recommendation for 20k Triple Axle Trailer
- Article: How to Tell the Weight Rating of a Trailer Axle
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Installing an Electric Brake Controller on 2007-2013 GM Full-Size Truck or 2007-Present GM SUV
- Article: Electric Trailer Brakes: How They Work & What to Buy
- Article: Stability Control for Heavy Duty Vehicles
- Article: Trailer Lighting Requirements
- Article: 4 Steps to Choosing Your 5th Wheel Pin Box


Jesse M.
2/17/2026
Hey George, how did things go after checking the axle and tire pressure on your Jayco camper? Did replacing or adjusting the torsion axle help even out the tire wear? Your update could make it easier for others dealing with the same issue.