ST or LT tires?
Hi all... We have a 2012 Voltage 3795 that has already "lost" two of the factory tires. The first one developed a bulge on the sidewall - so we replaced it. The second just had tread seperation (wh...
Forum Discussion
mpfireman wrote:
There is a lengthy article in Trailer Life, June 2013 page 50. It explains the difference between ST verses LT tires, and how they can have an effect on your trailers handling. ST tires contain chemical compounds to resist weather and ozone cracking. Your tandem or triple axle trailers put a tremendous amount of side load on the tires when turning, as ST tires have stiffer sidewalls that LT tires. Did you know that ST tires are designed to run at a max speed of 65 MPH? ( Unless Stated Otherwise) Plus higher speeds result a build up of heat in the tire, that have a direct impact on it's lifespan.
Different tire MFG recommend a different life expectancy from there tires. Carlisle states that one third of the tires strength is gone after 3 years, thus they recommend replacement of tires regardless of tread depth. Other tire MFG are in the range of 7 to 8 years. I for one go by the 6 year rule. The end of the article states, follow the RV, MFG guidelines as to your tire size and choice, LT or ST.
When I switched my st to lt the lts were way stiffer. I love the st propaganda about uv....does everyone believe lt tires are not made to be in the sun? Crazy. I like the part in the article that said if you have problems with st tires you should switch to lt. Actual people have done that and it works...its not st tire manufacturer advertising :)
