Radial vs. Bias ply trailer tires.
NOT FOR A CAMPER!! I'm shopping for a TA enclosed trailer and most of what I'm looking at come with bias tires with a radial upgrade. I've never ran a bias on any of my trailers, so I don't know the...
Forum Discussion
Hannibal wrote:
If bias ply tires have one advantage, it is that they don't sling a steel belt and tear up everything within reach if they blow out on the interstate. They just fly apart. Radials can do some serious damage to a trailer if they blow. If they only had one disadvantage, I would say it's the flat spot after they sit a while. Causes vibration like a tire out of balance until they warm up and smooth out.
I have bias ply tires on my boat trailer. Cousin went to bias ply on his 26' TT after a radial took out the side of his trailer including wiring and plumbing. Steel belt strands even wrapped around the hub and took out his inner bearing. Tangled up in the brake too. We had an interesting camping trip that week working to get it in shape to use for the week and make it back home.
^^^^ this is very true. I've only blew one tire in my life on my TT and when it came apart it was exactly like you said. "They just fly apart." With no steel belts they don't beat the hell out of your trailer.
Very good post Hannnibal!
