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path1's avatar
path1
Explorer
Dec 09, 2015

Upgrading tires and wanting "softer" ride?

Going from "ST" 15 inch to 16 inch "LT". Right now I have load range E on "ST" tires and travel with 72 to 76 psi. Max is 80 psi.

Don't remember exact scale weight but load range "D" has enough weight capacity for my TT with a little extra capacity to spare, but not much.

We have rear kitchen that gives "back of bus" ride. Bouncing not to rough but more than I would like. Of course I would like to leave a glass 1/2 full on counter and it still be there when we stop.

Question about going to 16 inch LT tire, would you go load range "D" or "E"? or should I find inflation charts of tire I'm looking at and put in just enough air for the weight that I'm carrying, to get smoothest ride possible?

Doesn't load range in tires effect strength of tire? As in the bigger load range means a stiffer tire? And that would mean stiffer ride?

Any advice.
  • Grit_dog's avatar
    Grit_dog
    Navigator
    Dec 14, 2015
    It's a trailer. Keep the heaviest tires you can find/afford on it. If you must, air them down a bit, but I don't treat trailer tires like vehicle tires. Keep em at or near max psi. Run cooler, less chance of side wall damage.
    This is within reason of course for those that pick apart posts like my 9 year old. I'm not suggesting G rates tires on a pop up!
  • Matt_Colie's avatar
    Matt_Colie
    Explorer II
    Dec 09, 2015
    You can dream all you like about leave things on the counter of a TT and having them still be there at the end of the day. Trailer manufactures have no interest in ride quality. I can promise you that. The last one that did was a little company called Holsclaw and they have been out of business for years. Tires will have some effect, but if they are the correct rating and the proper pressure for the load, that is about as good as you can get.

    Going to an LT as an all steel will get you the most sidewall flex, but there are companies that will not sell you that tire for TT or any trailer use.

    Don't stop pursuing the idea, just be ready for a long battle.

    Matt
  • parkmanaa's avatar
    parkmanaa
    Explorer
    Dec 09, 2015
    Quality of the ride is based more on having the right inflation pressure for the load the tires are carrying. Weigh the rig when it is loaded for camping, go to the tire manufacturer's website and find the PSI they recommend for your load.
    Add 5% safety facto0r, and that is actually the correct pressure you should use.
    BTW, if you want to upgrade to the best, check the Michelin X RIB 16" tires.
  • tvman44's avatar
    tvman44
    Explorer
    Dec 09, 2015
    I went from 15" ST Load "D" to 16" LT Load "E" and don't find the ride any different. Also have a rear kitchen.
  • K_Charles's avatar
    K_Charles
    Explorer
    Dec 09, 2015
    The tires don't have much to do with the bounce in the back. I 2nd adding shocks.
  • Lynnmor's avatar
    Lynnmor
    Explorer
    Dec 09, 2015
    Weigh the trailer first, don't believe the sticker or the advertised weight.

    The 16" LT's are a very good idea, just get the load range that carries the actual weight.

    I have a rear kitchen and know what you mean about the bouncing. I installed shocks and suggest you do the same.

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