Trailer Tires

Why Is It Important To Use A Special Trailer (ST) Tire?

Trailer tire failure is an inconvenience that can be avoided by using the correct tires, calculating the correct load and maintaining the right inflation. If you are looking to buy trailer tires online, bear in mind that trailer tire requirements differ greatly from automotive or light truck tires. Trailer tires are designated ST for Special Trailer. Automotive tires are designated P for Passenger or LT for Light Truck and are not designed for trailer use. These tires have more flexible sidewalls, which can result in trailer sway problems. The stiffer, heavy duty sidewalls of ST tires are designed to control and reduce these potentially dangerous sway problems. The construction, design, materials and testing used in ST tires meet the higher load requirements and special demands of trailering. If your trailer is a dump trailer, equipment trailer or any other trailer that will hold a heavy payload, an ST tire is critical.

What is the Difference Between ST Tires and Regular Tires?

Some ST tires are bias ply tires, which have crisscrossing cords of polyester or nylon. ST tires are also offered in radial construction, with plies that run perpendicularly across the tire and (often steel) belts running under the tread. Bias trailer tires are recommended for tough, rugged performance and sidewall puncture resistance necessitated by construction and agricultural applications. Radial trailer tires are recommended when smooth ride, tread wear, heat and extended tire life are important considerations. Regardless of application, trailers are used for one purpose-transporting loads.

How to Avoid Trailer Tire Failure?

A major cause of trailer tire failure is overloading. All tires are manufactured to handle specific load limits. ST tires are branded with a load range on the sidewall (LRB, LRC, LRD, etc.). The combined capacity of the tires must equal or exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of the axle and should exceed the loaded trailer weight by 20 percent. All tires must also be identical in size for the tires to properly manage the weight of the trailer. Finally, the number one cause of trailer tire failure is underinflation. Low inflation pressure elevates tread temperature, especially as speed increases. Always check inflation with a quality tire gauge. An underinflated tire creates abnormal tire flexing and excessive heat, causing tire damage and failure; ride and handling disturbance; reduction of tire life; and decreased fuel efficiency. Driving on tires that have been overinflated is also not recommended, as overinflated tires are more likely to cut, puncture or fail by sudden impact.

What Are The Uses for an ST Tire?

• Utility & Cargo Trailers
• Equipment Trailers
• Enclosed Trailers
• Gooseneck Trailers
• Horse Trailers
• Portable Light Towers
• Portable Generators
• Portable Cement Mixers
• Enclosed Campers
• 5th Wheel Campers