Key Factors to Consider When Selecting Trailer Wheels and Tire Packages

Introduction

Selecting suitable wheels and tires for a trailer is extremely important for safety, performance, and durability. The tires and wheels you select must be able to bear the load and intended usage of your trailer. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting  wheel tire packages for your trailer:

Load Rating

An essential factor is to ensure your wheels and tires have a proper load rating and weight-bearing capabilities to handle your trailer’s loaded weight. Tire failure and wheel damage are often caused by overloading and underinflation of the tires. Compare the GVWR on your vehicle's trailer to the maximum load rating for the wheel and tire package. Select a load rating which is to meets or, ideally, exceeds your trailer's weight requirements with an ample safety margin. .

Tire Construction

Trailer tires come in variousconstructions, including bias ply and radial. Radial trailer tires typically have stiffer sidewalls and run cooler than bias-ply tires. This makes them well-suited for heavier loads and higher speeds. Bias ply tires have flexible sidewalls that provide a smoother ride quality. But they tend to heat up faster at highway speeds. Consider how you will use your trailer to choose the proper tire construction.

Rim Type

Trailer wheels come in steel and aluminum varieties. Aluminum wheels are lighter weight, more corrosion resistant, and have better heat dissipation. But they are typically more expensive than steel wheels. The lighter weight allows for more payload capacity. At the same time, steel wheels are more economical but heavier. Make sure your wheel’s weight capacity matches or exceeds your GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) and hub size to avoid cracked rim repair or replacement costs.

Tire Ply Rating

A tire's ply rating indicates the number of fabric or steel plies or layers under the tread. Radial tires have a ‘ply rating’. This is based on the time when tires had actual cotton plys criss crossing from one bead to the other. Today’s radials use polyester, nylon, steel, and kevlar which are much stronger. A tire with a 10-ply rating may only have 4 or 5 actual plys but is equivilant to 10-ply in the old cotton ply system. Higher ply rated tires add strength and durability for heavy loads. Standard ply ratings for trailer tires include 6-ply, 8-ply, and 10-ply constructions. A higher ply rating, such as 14 to 18-ply, all steel construction is recommended for heavy-duty trailers with repeatedly large loads. This will reduce the risk of blowouts and punctures.

Tire Size

Select a tire size designed to fit your trailer's axles and fender wells. Trailer tires are commonly found in ST, LT, and TBR ranges based on intended usage. The tire size marked on the sidewall will also indicate the wheel diameter and tire width. Make sure to choose a size supported by your trailer's rim width and wheel openings.

Tread Design

The tire tread pattern impacts wet traction, hydroplaning resistance, noise, and wear. Trailer tires feature tread designs optimized for hauling applications. Look for a highway or rib tread pattern that provides plenty of tread surface and lower rolling resistance. . Make sure any specialty trailer tires match the load range and size needed.

Speed Rating

The speed rating indicates the maximum speed a tire is designed to safely travel at when properly inflated and loaded. Most trailer tires have speed ratings ranging from 62 mph to 75 mph. At the same time, light-duty trailer tires may be rated up to 87 mph. Choose a speed rating that matches your normal towing speeds for optimal control and handling.

Matching Sets

For best performance, traction, and tread wear, it's ideal to choose a matching wheel and tire package with tires sized and rated the same on each axle. Mixing tire brands, sizes, tread patterns, and levels of wear between the left and right side can impact handling, braking, and stability.

Spare Tire

Having a spare tire compatible with your wheel size and load range is essential in case a blowout or flat occurs. Ensure your spare has the same load rating, construction, and size as your trailer's tires for safe temporary use. A full-size matching spare is recommended for trailers.

Tire Pressure Monitoring

Today's TMPS (tire monitoring pressure systems) allow you to monitor your trailer tire pressure and temperature while towing. This provides an early warning for any loss of inflation or overheating that could lead to a blowout. Installation of TPMS on your trailer is a significant safety upgrade.

Replacement Intervals

Trailer tires can wear out faster than auto tires due to heavy loads and ‘skidding’ while turning and manuvering. On average, they may last 3-5 years. Check your tires regularly for cracking, bulging, uneven wear, or signs of aging. Rotation is recommended. And replace worn or damaged tires promptly. Following the tire manufacturer's replacement guidelines will help avoid failures.

Quality and Warranty

Research brands and evaluate tire reviews and ratings. Consider tires backed by a strong warranty for mileage, tread life, and roadside assistance. This adds protection in the event your

trailer tires require early replacement.

Local Retailers

Purchasing trailers, tires, and wheels from a full-service local retailer has its own benefits. They can get matching wheels and tires for your trailer frame and conditions. If you want them to mount, balance, and install the tires for you, just ask their service team. They are also great to do regular maintenance check-ups for you in the future..

Conclusion

Trailer wheels and tires must match the usage and weight you intend to haul since, at times, the loads can be heavy and carried for the long haul. Analyzing the loading capacity, design, tread design, and speed ratings will ensure excellent durability, handling, and safety for your trailer and cargo. An investment in quality tires for the trailer reduces the chances of blowouts, breakdowns, and handling problems during towing. Get a professional tire dealer to accessorize your trailer with the wheels tire packages you require.

Explore Boar Wheel's Collection

If you need high-end trailer wheels and tire combos, look no further than Boar Wheel. Our specialty wheels have been designed to meet the extreme needs of trailers, and this makes them last for years, giving the customers peace of mind. Whether you need a balanced heavy load or a speed rated tire , our wheels and tires offer the perfect  rims tire packages for you. For more info on our product & service, reach out to us today and feel the difference Boar Wheel brings to your trailer.