Trailer tire info - Page 3

Travis Miller · 04-16-2009, 09:33 AM

An aquaintance sent me this trailer tire info so I thought I would pass it along to others. Anyone who can add other tips, please do.

Trailer Tire Applications· Trailer tires are designed for use on trailer axle positions only, not for the loads applied to or the traction required by drive or steering axles.
· An “LT” designation on a trailer tire size specifies load range only. It is not designed for use on light trucks.
· Do not mount “ST” or “LT” trailer tires on passenger cars or light trucks.
· Always inflate trailer tires to the maximum inflation indicated on the sidewall.
· Check inflation when the tires are cool and have not been exposed to the sun.
· If the tires are hot to the touch from operation, add 3 psi to the max inflation.
· Underinflation is the number 1 cause of trailer tire failure.
Speed· All “ST” tires have a maximum speed rating of 65 MPH.
· As heat builds up, the tire’s structure starts to disintegrate and weaken.
· The load carrying capacity gradually decreases as the heat and stresses generated by higher speed increases.
Time
· In about three years roughly one third of the tire’s strength is gone.
· Three to five years is the projected life of a normal trailer tire.
· It is suggested that trailer tires be replaced after 3 to 4 years of service regardless of tread depth or tire appearance.
Mileage
· Trailer tires are not designed to wear out.
· The life of a trailer tire is limited by time and duty cycles.
· The mileage expectation of a trailer tire would be 5,000 to 12,000 miles.
Why Use An “ST” Tire
· “ST” tires feature materials and construction to meet the higher load requirements and demands of trailering.
· The polyester cords are bigger than they would be for a comparable “P” or “LT” tire.
· The steel cords have a larger diameter and greater tensile strength to meet the additional load requirements.
· “ST” tire rubber compounds contain more chemicals to resist weather and ozone cracking.
Storage
· The ideal storage is in a cool dark, garage at maximum inflation.
· Use tire covers to protect the tires from direct sunlight.
· Use thin plywood sections between the tire and the pavement.
· For long term storage, put the trailer on blocks to take the weight of the tires, lower the air pressure and cover tires to protect from direct sunlight.
Maintenance
· Clean the tires using mild soap and water.
· Do not use tire-care products containing alcohol or petroleum distillates.
· Inspect for any cuts, snags, bulges or punctures.
· Check the inflation before towing and again before the return trip.
Three keys To Avoid Trouble
· Make sure your rig is equipped with the proper tires.
· Maintain the tires meticulously.
· Replace trailer tires every 3 to 5 years, whether they look worn or not.

04-16-2009, 09:33 AM	#1
Travis Miller Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 478 Likes: 1 Liked 276 Times in 27 Posts	Trailer tire info An aquaintance sent me this trailer tire info so I thought I would pass it along to others. Anyone who can add other tips, please do. Trailer Tire Applications· Trailer tires are designed for use on trailer axle positions only, not for the loads applied to or the traction required by drive or steering axles. · An “LT” designation on a trailer tire size specifies load range only. It is not designed for use on light trucks. · Do not mount “ST” or “LT” trailer tires on passenger cars or light trucks. · Always inflate trailer tires to the maximum inflation indicated on the sidewall. · Check inflation when the tires are cool and have not been exposed to the sun. · If the tires are hot to the touch from operation, add 3 psi to the max inflation. · Underinflation is the number 1 cause of trailer tire failure. Speed· All “ST” tires have a maximum speed rating of 65 MPH. · As heat builds up, the tire’s structure starts to disintegrate and weaken. · The load carrying capacity gradually decreases as the heat and stresses generated by higher speed increases. Time · In about three years roughly one third of the tire’s strength is gone. · Three to five years is the projected life of a normal trailer tire. · It is suggested that trailer tires be replaced after 3 to 4 years of service regardless of tread depth or tire appearance. Mileage · Trailer tires are not designed to wear out. · The life of a trailer tire is limited by time and duty cycles. · The mileage expectation of a trailer tire would be 5,000 to 12,000 miles. Why Use An “ST” Tire · “ST” tires feature materials and construction to meet the higher load requirements and demands of trailering. · The polyester cords are bigger than they would be for a comparable “P” or “LT” tire. · The steel cords have a larger diameter and greater tensile strength to meet the additional load requirements. · “ST” tire rubber compounds contain more chemicals to resist weather and ozone cracking. Storage · The ideal storage is in a cool dark, garage at maximum inflation. · Use tire covers to protect the tires from direct sunlight. · Use thin plywood sections between the tire and the pavement. · For long term storage, put the trailer on blocks to take the weight of the tires, lower the air pressure and cover tires to protect from direct sunlight. Maintenance · Clean the tires using mild soap and water. · Do not use tire-care products containing alcohol or petroleum distillates. · Inspect for any cuts, snags, bulges or punctures. · Check the inflation before towing and again before the return trip. Three keys To Avoid Trouble · Make sure your rig is equipped with the proper tires. · Maintain the tires meticulously. · Replace trailer tires every 3 to 5 years, whether they look worn or not.