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INFO CENTER |
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Trailer Tire Facts |
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Trailer Tire Applications
- Trailer tires are designed for use on trailer axle positions only. They are
not built to handle 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.
Inflation
- 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 three psi to the max inflation.
- Underinflation is the number one cause of trailer tire failure.
Load Carrying Capacity
- All tires must be identical in size for the tires to properly manage the weight of the trailer.
- The combined capacity of the tires must equal or exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of the axle.
- The combined capacity of all of the tires should exceed the loaded trailer weight by 20 percent.
- If the actual weight is not available, use the trailer GVW. If a tire fails
on a tandem axle trailer, you should replace both tires on that side. The remaining
tire is likely to have been subjected to excessive loading.
- If the tires are replaced with tires of larger diameter, the tongue height may
need to be adjusted to maintain proper weight distribution.
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
- Time and the elements weaken a trailer tire.
- In approximately 3 years, roughly one third of the tire's strength is gone.
- Three to five years is the projected life of a normal trailer tire.
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 off 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.
Keys to Avoiding Trouble
- Make sure your rig is equipped with the proper tires.
- Maintain the tires meticulously.
- Replace trailer tires every three to four years, whether they look like they're worn out or not.
Trailer Tire Warranty
- The Carlisle trailer tire warranty applies to the original purchaser for 3 years from the date of purchase
or until the tread depth reaches 3/32".
- OE warranty goes into effect at the time of the trailer purchase.
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