OK... so I read through the majority of posts on this thread and there is definitely a lot of good information here!!
The only thing I am a little unclear about is how the load ratings are calculated between ST and LT tires. I am in the process of researching new tires for my 5er and have found that the Goodyear G614 (LR-G, 14 ply, 3750lb capacity, LT tire) would meet my criteria. One of the shops I spoke to also recommended a Kenda Karrier HD Radial (LR-F, 12ply, 3960lb capacity ST tire).
I am confused as to how a LR-F tire can have a higher max laod capacity than a LR-G tire even if they are ST vs. LT. Obviously the Kenda is about 1/2 the cost of the GY. My trailer axles are rated (according to the placard) at 6840lbs but I know they are 7k axles that the manufacturer reduced the rating on to ensure that the standard LR-E tires (rated at 3420lbs) can be used.
And to top it all off, I found I can upgrade to a 17.5" tire (Hercules H-902 245/75R17.5 135/133L 16 ply) including new steel rims for the same cost as the G614. I am leaning towards the 17.5" option because it seems the tires are more readily available than the G614 (at least around here) and of course because the load rating is total overkill for my trailer at 4805lbs per tire. Also, the replacement cost of the 17.5" tire is about $100 less per tire than the G614, so in 5 years when I need to replace tires, my costs will be less.
Does this logic make sense, or am I going way overboard here when I could safely go with the Kenda tire in terms of load capacity and in turn save a whack of dough? Comments?
