Upgrading to a Larger Tire Size on a Sundowner Trailer

Published 08/08/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Karrier ST205/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire with 15" White Wheel - 5 on 5 - Load Range C

(1575)

$194.25

Karrier KR03 ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range E

(2348)

$168.69

Question:

I was told from sundowner That my 205/75/15 load c tires could be switched out for 225/75/15 class d or e? Without switching rims, is this the case? Thank you,

asked by: Lisa

Expert Reply:

Sundowner would know if the rims they installed on your trailer are capable of having a larger size installed on them so you should be fine.

The 205/75-15 tire size can fit rims that are 5 to 6-1/2 inches in width whereas the 225/75-15 can fit on rims that are 6 to 7 inches in width. When going to a larger tire we recommend you check the clearances of the trailer to be certain that a larger and wider tire could fit.

I would recommend a radial ST225/75R15 like part # AM10303 over a bias ply. See review video.

The main difference between a radial ply and a bias ply tire is how the tire is constructed. The cords inside a bias ply tire run at a 32 degree angle to the direction of travel, and the cords on a radial tire run at a 90 degree angle to the direction of travel, or across the tire from wheel lip to wheel lip.

A radial tire flexes more than a bias tire, giving it better ground contact, traction, stability, and tread wear.

A radial tire will normally run cooler than a bias ply tire, especially when the tire is under a load. A tire that runs cooler will last longer.

expert reply by: Jameson C