Upgrading Tires on Keystone Cougar 364BHL

Updated 07/07/2024 | Published 06/27/2024

Products Featured in This Question

Westlake ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range G

(542)

$377.23

Westlake ST235/80R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range E

(542)

$277.32

Question:

I have a 5th wheel trailer with a GVWR of 14,000 LBS. The trailer is equipped with two 2 6000 lb Dexter axels. I want to purchase new tires and upgrade the ply rating. I am concerned about going with 14 ply tires thinking the weight of the tires and construction of the 14 ply tires will be too harsh on the suspension system of the trailer. Current tires on this trailer are 235/80/R 16 with E Rating 80 PSI tires. Is upgrading to an F rated tire a better choice considering the stock axels and suspension on this unit? This is a Keystone Cougar 364BHL 5th wheel.

asked by: Andrew B

Expert Reply:

Hi Andrew; Load Range G might give you a bit of a bumpy ride since you're moving up by two ratings so I share the same concern. We don't carry any tires with a Load Range F but that would be a better choice. Realistically, your Load Range E tires like the # LHWL401 are just fine.

Assuming you have a max load of 3,520 lbs over 4 tires that will be 14,080 lbs for the overall tire capacity. It looks like the dry hitch weight on the 2022 Keystone Cougar 364BHL is 2,200 lbs so at a minimum you can take that out of the 14,000 since that weight won't be on the tires or suspension. This leaves you with only 11,800 lbs on the tires which they are more than capable of handling.

expert reply by: Robin H