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Flat spots on front axle tires

Texas_Two_Stepp
Explorer
Explorer
Since I bought my 2013 Excel I have been having problems with flat spots on the tires on the front axle. These areas are about 10” apart with one usually being worse than the others, and worse on the curb side. I have bought 3 new tires over the past two years because of this. The tires are 17.5 Michelin load J and are expensive. The undercarriage, calipers etc. are Dexter. Total trailer weight 15.5k with app. 6k on each axle. I have recently learned that the problem may be related to the braking rotational force exerted from the rear axle thru the equalizer bar causing a slight lifting force on the front axle and causing those front tires to skid. I think the cause of this may be from two things: being slightly nose high (I do this to get about 7” clearance above the bed rails) would cause a little more weight on the rear wheels when braking and being heavy on the drivers side (2 slides, 4 batteries and refer. vs 1 slide on curb side). I set my brakes by the prescribed procedure and run air pressure per tire charts.
I do not know how to solve this problem except buying new tires. I do have 3-3 position spring hangers(?) on each side which are all set in the highest position. I have been thinking about lowering the front 2 hangers on each side to the middle position but don’t know how that will effect things.
Your input will be appreciated.
2015 Duramax 3500 dually 4x4
2013 Excel Winslow 31RSE
TST tire monitor
Magnum MS 2012 inverter/charger
3-135w solar panels
Tristar controller
Trimetric monitor
4-6v Trojan t105 batteries
B & W companion 3000 hitch
16 REPLIES 16

chrizg
Explorer
Explorer
Are you locking up the tires when braking but not realizing it ? My trailer brakes become more sensitive as they heat up.
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K_Charles
Explorer
Explorer
you say nose high, how much too high?