New tires for my TT
I currently have ST205/75R14 Trail America ST Radials 6 ply Load Range C tires on My Lance model 1985 Travel Trailer. Looking to replace all four tires, any recommendations for good quality tires ?
Forum Discussion
Wishin wrote:gmw photos wrote:
And a little followup to what Marty said regarding the Kumho, if you look on the tire rack site, they give all the specs for the different sizes of these tires. Among the issue of size, that "could" be of concern on some trailers, is the overall diameter, if there is limited clearance above the tire in the fenderwell. It was an issue on my trailer ( funfinder ), so I am using the Kumho in a 185-14, which as it turns out is two tenths ( .2" )of an inch smaller in diameter than the 205-75-14 ST that came from the factory. The Kumho is an "82 series" tire. I measured the tread width where it touches the ground, and this 185 is right at one half inch narrower as far as tread on the ground vs the old 205.
Re Maxxis, for some interesting reading, do a search for Maxxis Airstream, and poke around on the airforums website to get a feel for what those owners have experienced.
I've got Maxxis tires currently and had my first blow-out on a trailer tire ever this summer with them. They are 7-8 years old per the date code on the tires. My plan was to replace them before next year anyway, luckily no damage. I'm sure my tires are maxed out as far as load goes, and I've upsized from 175/80R13 to 180/80R13 already, both were load range C. I'm seriously looking to buy some 14" rims and the the smallest of those Kumho's that you pointed out, I've had my eye on them. I can get a slightly larger tire (that looks like it will fit on my trailer), higher load range (D vs C), and 99mph speed rating. Seems like an ideal tire for my trailer and needs. My trailer is slightly over it's GVWR the last time I measured with a full fresh water tank. Honestly, I think going up to a higher load rated tire is more important than what brand you buy. Too many of us are at our tires limits it would seem.
....yes, your last sentence there is likely the biggest problem we seem to face on many of the towable RV's out there....the manufacturers are simply not specifying axles/wheels/tires that have enough reserve capacity, leaving many folks too close to or over the limits.
