75mph ST tire

gmw photos wrote:

rbpru wrote:
If you folks are trying to say that LTs are tested to tougher standards than and ST there is no argument there. LTs are a more rubust tire because they need to be for their intended service.

If you are trying to say the more robust testing makes them better for TT service, that is simply opinion.

Those opinion is off set by 1.) The fact that TT and most of the other trailer industries find STs a sutable and economic tire choice. 2.) The fact that LTs are not widely used or advertized by their manufacturers for trailer service.

People can invent a thousand reason why this is true, again just more opinions.

My opinion is STs are used because they do what they are designed and tested to do.

It is also my opinion that those who, go off-road, drive fast, exposed their rigs to other extremes or simply feel they need them; would best be served by a tire designed for that purpose.

If I have to replace a $80 ST tire at 3 to 5 years, vs only having to replace a LT tire at twice that lifespan at $110, which is "more economic" ?

Let's see, you mentioned off road. Yep, sometimes down rock roads to remote CG's. When I go to the farm to see my niece and her family, they live down 12 miles of graded gravel roads. So yes, I need tires that can take it. Drive fast ? Yes I sometimes pull at 65 mph. That would be "redline" on many ST tires. I don't run my engine at redline, why would I want to run my tires at redline ?
Extremes ? Try I-40 through Oklahoma City !;):(

I found this discussion because of my interest in replacing my ST tires on my 5th wheel. My new interest in this subject was due to having a blow out on I75 yesterday in Florida as we were making our way home. There is nothing quite so stimulating as attempting to change a tire on the drivers side of a 5th wheel while being nearly blown over by every passing truck of which there were many.

I had about 20 hrs of driving time in the past two days to debate the need to replace all of our 5er tires which all appeared in good shape with proper inflation. I was only traveling about 60 mph at the time, but who knows what the internal condition of the tire was. I know the point was made regarding the difference in cost of ST vs LT and the frequency of change. I think we need to add the 3rd variable of cost of repair due to blow out damage. Our damage appears relatively light, aluminum skirt behind tire bent severely upwards, plastic trim piece broken off along with mounting bracket, and some underside damage as we now have road debris on the floor inside the 5er. Probably $1000-2000. I was initially thinking new STs but now LTs are starting to look like a better solution, no speed limit issues, load rating is OK. Not sure I even want to keep the STs for a spare after this occurance and it's the 2nd time in 3yrs.