Tires - Load Range D vs E

[mfoster711]

My trailer uses 225/75R15 load range D tires. Checked my local tire stores and all of them only had load range E tires in stock. One of the guys tried to push me into getting load range E because "they are a much higher load rating and can handle a lot more weight" and he questioned why I didn't just want the load range E tires. I told him I did not want load range E for several reasons:

• Load range E tires have to be inflated to 80 PSI and might cause a rougher ride
• my wheels are not rated for load range E
• I would also need to replace my spare to ensure I don't mix load ranges

He was polite after that and ordered some load range D tires which will be in this week.

Truth being told, my wheels might be rated to handle load range E. I just didn't want the load range E tires because I thought it would be overkill for my trailer and may cause a rougher ride. My max trailer weight is 7500 lbs so I could actually use load range C and be just fine.


I am just curious how many of you would have just gone ahead and took the load range E tires they had in stock. Do you think it would make a difference in the ride?

[Lwiddis]

To clarify, you told the tire shop rep your wheels were not rated to handle LR E, but they might be rated for LR E? Why not just tell him "No. Get LR D?"

Me. I want the toughest trailer tires I can find and unfortunately in 14s it's LR D. So, since you are asking, I think you were wrong.

[amxpress]

If you installed "E" tires you could still inflate them based on the load they're carrying, not necessarily 80 PSI. It is a heavier tire and can handle more load, but should also last longer and provide that extra edge in tire safety. Regardless, I hope any tire you're installing on your TT are not China bombs. If so, cancel the tires and get a different ST tire, i.e. Maxxis.
Also, be sure they get balanced.

[wrgrs50s]

Most everyone with D's want to switch to E's just for a little more comfort knowing they are a little stronger tire. To each his own on that theory, it could be argued all day.

[wrgrs50s]

Most everyone with D's want to switch to E's just for a little more comfort knowing they are a little stronger tire. To each his own on that theory, it could be argued all day.

[2oldman]

I don't know.

As for the rougher ride, you don't have to inflate a tire to its max. But, the E's may have a stiffer sidewall. I wouldn't sweat the spare. How often would you need that??