Tires

[onewheat]

This is from Discount Tire. I found some of this very interesting, especially Speed, Time and Mileage remarks.

"Trailer Tire Applications
Trailer tires are designed for use on trailer axle positions only. They are not built to handle the loads applied to, or the traction required by, drive or steering axles.
Inflation
Always inflate trailer tires to the maximum inflation indicated on the sidewall.
Check inflation when the tires are cool and have not been exposed to the sun.
If the tires are hot to the touch from operation, add three psi to the max inflation.
Underinflation is the number one cause of trailer tire failure.
Load Carrying Capacity
All tires must be identical in size for the tires to properly manage the weight of the trailer.
The combined capacity of the tires must equal or exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of the axle.
The combined capacity of all of the tires should exceed the loaded trailer weight by 20 percent.
If the actual weight is not available, use the trailer GVW. If a tire fails on a tandem axle trailer, you should replace both tires on that side. The remaining tire is likely to have been subjected to excessive loading.
If the tires are replaced with tires of larger diameter, the tongue height may need to be adjusted to maintain proper weight distribution.
Speed
All "ST" tires have a maximum speed rating of 65 mph.
As heat builds up, the tire's structure starts to disintegrate and weaken.
The load carrying capacity gradually decreases as the heat and stresses generated by higher speed increases.

Time
Time and the elements weaken a trailer tire.
In approximately three years, roughly one-third of the tire's strength is gone.
Three to five years is the projected life of a normal trailer tire.
It is suggested that trailer tires be replaced after three to four years of service regardless of tread depth or tire appearance.

Mileage
Trailer tires are not designed to wear out.
The life of a trailer tire is limited by time and duty cycles.
The mileage expectation of a trailer tire is 5,000 to 12,000 miles.
Why Use An "ST" Tire
"ST" tires feature materials and construction to meet the higher load requirements and demands of trailering.
The polyester cords are bigger than they would be for a comparable "P" or "LT" tire.
The steel cords have a larger diameter and greater tensile strength to meet the additional load requirements.
"ST" tire rubber compounds contain more chemicals to resist weather and ozone cracking.
Storage
The ideal storage for trailer tires is in a cool, dark garage at maximum inflation.
Use tire covers to protect the tires from direct sunlight.
Use thin plywood sections between the tire and the pavement.
For long term storage, put the trailer on blocks to take the weight off the tires. Then lower the air pressure and cover the tires to protect them from direct sunlight.
Maintenance
Clean the tires using mild soap and water.
Do not use tire-care products containing alcohol or petroleum distillates.
Inspect the tires for any cuts, snags, bulges or punctures.
Check the inflation before towing and again before the return trip.
Keys to Avoiding Trouble
Make sure your rig is equipped with the proper tires.
Maintain the tires meticulously.
Replace trailer tires every three to five years, whether they look like they're worn out or not.
Trailer Tire Warranty
The Carlisle trailer tire warranty applies to the original purchaser for three years from the date of purchase or until the tread depth reaches 3/32".
The OE (original equipment) warranty goes into effect at the time of the trailer purchase

[onewheat]

What size tire is should be on an '07 tandem - 205/75-14 (trailer is 200 miles away)? I can't remember and need a set too. I need to see who has what in stock that will fit.

[mlawler34]

Originally Posted by onewheat

What size tire is should be on an '07 tandem - 205/75-14 (trailer is 200 miles away)? I can't remember and need a set too. I need to see who has what in stock that will fit.

The marathons that come on the trailer are 215/75R14. However I you are looking at the Khumo's they only come in 205, which I have not seen anyone have a problem with because they are load range d.

[thatsmrmastercraft]

There shouldn't be any problems with availability of ST tires this time of year.

[mlawler34]

Man I am having a hell of a time trying to find someone in my area that can get the Khumo's in. I need to get them on before memorial day!

[mlawler34]

Contacted Maxxis through their website and they are willing to ship for free, so I may just go that route since everyone is happy with them as well

[waterlogged882]

Originally Posted by mlawler34

Man I am having a hell of a time trying to find someone in my area that can get the Khumo's in. I need to get them on before memorial day!

Kumhos (trailer) are typically an item for specialty carriers like Tire Rack. Auto tire dealers around town do not carry them nor are they available to them. I don't know why. I ordered the Kumhos and then had the local Kumho dealer to mount.

205 x 14 on the standard MC supplied trailer...plenty of room under the fender for the 205.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires....del=Radial+857 Made in either Viet Nam or China....

I feel confident that the Maxxis is as good of a tire.. I mean, how good or bad can they be, comparatively...??? I never had any issues with the GY Marathon, but have seen too many other incidents, so I went Kumho... However I trailer very short distances to the ramp....

.

[mzimme]

What should trailer tire lugs be torqued to?

[Miss Rita]

1/2" lug nuts should be torqued 75-85 foot-lbs. I set my torque wrench on 90, would rather have them be 5 foot-lbs too tight instead of 5 foot-lbs too loose.

[onewheat]

Originally Posted by mlawler34

Contacted Maxxis through their website and they are willing to ship for free, so I may just go that route since everyone is happy with them as well

That is cool - the tire prices on their website seem a bit "spendy", but if they'll ship for that price, it isn't too bad.