Recommendations
- If there is significant wear on any one portion of the tire (perhaps the edges more than the center). ...
- If the tread wear really does reach the wear bars or 3/32″ rule.
- If there is damage on the tire (like a slice, or a bulging sidewall, or a chunk of tread missing). ...
- If you find significant dry rot. ...
- Consider time. ...
How often do boat trailer tires wear out?
The treads on tires for boat trailers don’t really wear out. More often, the sidewalls deteriorate over time, showing signs of cracking in the rubber exterior. Yet even tires that look OK can fool you.
When should I replace my trailer tires?
If the tire tread, in it’s most worn spot is below this number, then replace it. OK, that works pretty well for car tires, but when have you ever “worn out” a trailer tire? For trailers, wear-out happens most often when there are other circumstances. Things like misalignment, or bad brake balance. I haven’t actually “worn out” a trailer tire.
Do boat trailer tires need to be rotated?
Single axle boat-trailer tires usually don't need to be rotated. A tandem axle trailer rotation isn't necessary unless you notice increased wear that's occurring faster than normal. In that case, rotate the tires from front to back, preferably in an "X" configuration.
How can I tell how old my boat trailer tire is?
Your tire's age (whether for a boat trailer, truck, or passenger car) has a DOT (Department of Transportation) time stamp that provides the tire's date of manufacture. The last four digits tell you everything you need to know.
How do you know when your trailer tires need to be replaced?
0:381:48When to Replace Trailer Tires - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThey can actually damage the structure of your tire as a precaution the Karl star group recommendsMoreThey can actually damage the structure of your tire as a precaution the Karl star group recommends replacing your trailer tires every five years even if they have adequate tread.
How old can trailer tires be and still be safe?
Even if the tire tread has plenty of depth left and you can't see any cracking with the naked eye, the generally accepted rule of thumb states that trailer tires should be replaced after about 6 or 7 years. Yours are about twice that age.
How long do boat tires last?
that being said if you want to be on the safer side there is a DOT number stamped on every tire and contains a date code so you "should" change them 3-4 years after that code.
How long do trailer tires last not used?
Tire Lifespan A tire that is not in use can degrade from ultraviolet (UV) exposure. The life expectancy of a trailer tire varies from manufacturer to manufacturer; however, most are between 3 to 8 years, regardless of mileage.
Do you need to rotate boat trailer tires?
Single axle boat-trailer tires usually don't need to be rotated. A tandem axle trailer rotation isn't necessary unless you notice increased wear that's occurring faster than normal. In that case, rotate the tires from front to back, preferably in an “X” configuration.
Are 7 year old tires safe?
Old tires are dangerous, regardless of tread depth. While there's no federally sanctioned safety guidance on when a tire is too old to be safe, many carmakers recommend replacement at six years from the date of manufacture. Old tires have been the culprit in fatal accidents.
How long can boat trailer tires last?
5 yearsAccording to rubber industry research, trailer tires need to be replaced after 3–5 years of use, even though they usually appear to have plenty of tread left.
How many miles should trailer tires last?
The mileage lifespan for a standard trailer tire is about 5,000 to 12,000 miles. This range can vary, but on average it's a good starting guideline. This is a fairly wide range, and it can change depending on many different factors: age of the tire, mileage covered, type of mileage, and type of tire.
How often should I change my trailer tires?
Generally trailer tires should be replaced every 5 to 6 years regardless of mileage and use. This "clock" can be started once the tires are mounted to your trailer, assuming they were stored in a controlled environment between the manufacturer date and the day they were mounted.
Is it OK to buy 2 year old tires?
Old “New” Rubber The tread is good, and the manufacture stickers may still be on it. When tires reach a certain age the rubber begins to dry out and crack. That can make it unsafe for road use because it may run the risk of blowing out, falling apart, or lose traction during bad road conditions.
How long can tires sit unused?
In general, tires can sit unused for 6-10 years. Though, after the six-year mark, an annual inspection will be necessary.
Are 10 year old tires safe?
It may be tentative, but tires do have an expiration date. There is a general consensus that most tires should be inspected, if not replaced, at about six years and should be absolutely be swapped out after 10 years, regardless of how much tread they have left.
What do you need to know about boat trailer tires?
What you need to know about Boat Trailer Tires. Everyone loves spending time out on the boat at the lake. But nobody loves being stuck on the side of the road with a blown out trailer tire on the way to the lake. Just as you maintain your vehicle and boat, it is important to check and maintain your boat trailer tires.
How fast can a boat trailer tire go?
Even though many of us want to reach our destination as fast as we can, boat trailer tires are made to not exceed speeds of 65 mph (100 Km/h). Doing so, for long periods of time could lead to tire failure.
What is the load capacity of a boat trailer tire?
B is the lightest classification of load capacity and E carries the heaviest load capacity. Most boat trailer tires fall under C or D. If boat trailer tires hold a C Load that means it can carry up to 1,820 lbs. On a single axle trailer this means that the boat trailer tires can support up to 3,640 lbs. This includes the weight of the trailer, the boat, the boat’s engine, as well as anything else on the boat. It’s important to remember single axle trailers can carry 100% of the load rating, but double axle trailers must have the load reduced by 12%.
Why rotate tires side to side on a single axle trailer?
Even rotating your tires side to side on a single axel trailer will help even out irregular treadwear and extend the life of the tire. On a double axle, the standard X rotation is in order from time to time, particularly if you notice that irregular wear patterns are developing in the tread.
How much weight can a boat trailer tire hold?
Most boat trailer tires fall under C or D. If boat trailer tires hold a C Load that means it can carry up to 1,820 lbs. On a single axle trailer this means that the boat trailer tires can support up to 3,640 lbs. This includes the weight of the trailer, the boat, the boat’s engine, as well as anything else on the boat.
What is a ST tire?
Dedicated trailer tires are marked as ST. This will be marked on the tire’s sidewall along with the size of the tire. The tire may also say, “trailer use only.”. ST tires have stronger sidewalls that allow them to carry a heavier load that standard Passenger car tires or Light Truck tires.
Why does rubber on a boat trailer degrade?
Obviously the tread isn’t wearing out when the trailer is parked, but the rubber does degrade due to exposure to UV rays and freezing temperatures. The rubber basically dries out and cracks start to appear.
How often should I replace trailer tires?
Another rule a tire store may tell: Replace trailer tires every 3 years regardless of wear. (I’ve heard everything from 3 years to 6 years, so I reject timelines as an absolute.) I agree, time is an important factor, but it’s not an absolute.
How to make trailer tires last longer?
How Can You Make Tires Last Longer? 1 Don’t store them in the sun. That’s the worst for dry-rot, which is the leading cause of death for trailer tires. Cover them. 2 Keep them inflated properly for the conditions. While there are times for low inflation, make sure it is always at a level that’s right for the load. 3 If the trailer stores with a significant load for a long time — like an RV or tiny house — put it on blocks. This takes the load off the tires. All tires leak down a little over a long time. It’s better for the tires with no stress from bulging out as the pressure goes low. 4 Make sure the axles align properly to themselves, and with the tow vehicle. Watch the tires, and if they start to have wear patterns, fix the problems to make sure they serve you well.
What is the tread depth of a tire?
Some tire stores will give you the 3/32″ rule, while others will say 2/32″ (1/16″). This is talking about tread depth. Most tires also have “wear bars” that show when the manufacturer thinks the tire is worn out. See the wear bar photo. If the tire tread, in it’s most worn spot is below this number, then replace it.
What causes trailer tires to die?
That’s the worst for dry-rot, which is the leading cause of death for trailer tires. Cover them. Keep them inflated properly for the conditions. While there are times for low inflation, make sure it is always at a level that’s right for the load.
Can you leak tires down?
All tires leak down a little over a long time. It’s better for the tires with no stress from bulging out as the pressure goes low. Make sure the axles align properly to themselves, and with the tow vehicle. Watch the tires, and if they start to have wear patterns, fix the problems to make sure they serve you well.
Can you dry rot tires in storage?
Consider time. If the trailer lives outdoors, tires will not last as long. If you don’t cover the tires in storage, they won’t last as long. I don’t put a “years” deadline on it, because it depends on many factors.
How often should I replace trailer tires?
Generally trailer tires should be replaced every 5 to 6 years regardless of mileage and use. This "clock" can be started once the tires are mounted to your trailer, assuming they were stored in a controlled environment between the manufacturer date and the day they were mounted.
Can you store trailer tires outside?
Storing your trailer outside where the tires are exposed to the sun all day may certainly shorten their lifespan by leading to cracks or dry rot. I suggest checking for any fine cracks on the tire sidewalls that would indicate the need for them to be replaced.
How long do trailer tires last?
Each tire manufacturer will likely have different recommendations on the service life of a particular type of tire, but statistics suggest the average life of a trailer tire is about five years under normal use and maintenance conditions, and that tire replacement should be considered after three years, even if the tires appear to have adequate tread depth. Consult with your tire dealer if you have questions regarding the life expectancy of your trailer’s tires.
What causes tire damage on trailer?
Trailer tire damage is often a result of: Improper tire pressure. Excessive exposure to sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Trailers stored with weight on the tires. Excessive speed. Improper loading. Exposure to high temperatures while in use. Sporadic use of the trailer.
What are the indicators on a trailer tire?
The indicators are the raised sections with intermittent spacing in the bottom of the tread grooves. When these indicators appear even with the outside of the tread, it’s time to replace your trailer’s tires. You can also check this by placing ...
What causes a tire to blow out?
Cracks, Punctures, and Foreign Objects. Cracks, punctures, and foreign objects can create spaces that allow air to escape from your tires. If you don’t catch it soon enough, any of these could lead to a blowout or worse. Remove foreign objects as soon as you notice them wedged in your tire tread to prevent further damage.
Should you inspect tires before using a trailer?
You should be inspecting your tires before you use your trailer, every time. As you inspect your tires, keep in mind the following areas that need to be inspected for indications that your tires should be replaced.
What happens if you have old tires on your trailer?
They can lead to blowouts, a terrifying experience for you, your horses if you’re carrying them, and other drivers. So it’s vital to know when to replace trailer tires. We’ll walk you through a checklist to determine whether yours are ready for an upgrade.
How long do tires last?
Generally speaking, a tire’s lifespan is five years –whether it’s being used or not! Heavy use will of course reduce this lifespan, which is why it’s important to weigh your tire’s age along with the factors above.
What is LT tire?
LT tires are meant to accompany vehicles with a sophisticated suspension system to create a smooth ride. Horse trailers don’t come with this type of suspension so they need ST tires, which can endure more bumps on the road. 2.
How to tell if a tire is LT or ST?
1. Confirm That Your Tire Matches Your Trailer. Check the side of your tire for the letters ST. LT tires are designed for “light truck” use and P are designated for “passenger” cars, while ST tires are designed specifically for use on a trailer.
How much weight can a boat trailer tire carry?
If a tire has load range C, it can carry 1,820 pounds. If it's on a single-axle trailer, this means both tires can carry a total of 3,640 pounds, which includes the weight of the trailer, the boat, the engine, fuel, and anything else inside the boat.
What is the sidewall of a boat trailer tire?
A tire's sidewall is where you learn everything: dimensions, capacities, age, and most important, purpose. A tire made for a boat trailer is going to have "ST" on the sidewall, or the words "Trailer Use Only.". Unlike tires on your car, trailer tires have strengthened sidewalls to handle the weight of a boat, especially when rounding corners.
Why is boatus called boat help?
BoatUS TRAILER ASSIST service providers say tires are the main reason they're called to help members experiencing trouble on the road. Under inflation is the cause of most tire trouble because temperatures increase when the tire pressure is too low. So, check inflation prior to going on the road.
How fast can a trailer tire go?
Most trailer tires have a maximum speed of 65 mph. However, if speeds from 66 to 75 mph are used, the tire inflation pressure can be increased by 10 psi without any increase in load.
Why do trailer tires crack?
Sun. Prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays will deteriorate trailer tires , causing spiderweb cracks. This can be easily resolved by putting tire covers over the tires if the trailer is going to be parked for an extended period of time.
What does it mean when a trailer is parked?
A parked trailer means the tires are bearing the weight in the same position on the tire, for a long period of time . This can result in "flat spots" on a tire. If the trailer is parked for a while, check the tire pressure from time to time to ensure the tires are properly inflated.
Do boat trailer tires need to be inflated?
Remember, boat trailer tires typically need to be inflated to higher psi than tow vehicle tires. And be sure to also check the psi of the spare tire.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
We recommend replacing trailer tires every 6 to 7 years, regardless of their physical condition. You're just about at that time with the tires on your Scamp trailer, but you're also not overdue. I would think about replacing the tires after this season is over.
Follow up Questions
We recommend replacing trailer tires every 6 to 7 years, regardless of their physical condition. You're just about at that time with the tires on your Scamp trailer, but you're also not overdue. I would think about replacing the tires after this season is over.
How long are RV tires good for?
An RV trailer tire is good for three to five years, maybe a little more if they are really taken care of. High heat days really stress out a tire to its maximum capacity when carrying its designed load. I have eight tires on my fifth wheel that are capable of handling thirty-two thousand pounds of load.
How many miles does a ST tire last?
Its life expectancy is determined by time and the number of duty cycles. The expected mileage rating of an ST trailer tire is 5,000 to 12,000 miles!
What is ST tire?
Use an ST Tire? An ST RV trailer tire is designed using construction and materials for trailers that have higher demands on the tires they use. An RV trailer tire is typically pushing the limits of their weight requirements and subjected to high heat conditions.
What happens if your RV tire blows out?
When an RV trailer tire fails during travel, as in a blowout, the results can be extremely damaging to your RV trailer. Blown tires can tear through propane and electrical lines near the wheel wells, rip through the floors above the tire wells, tear apart the sidewall fiberglass around the wheel wells, and strand you on the side ...
How fast can a ST trailer go?
ST RV trailer tires are designed for a maximum speed of 65 mph.
Why are my RV tires failing?
Under-inflation is the number one cause of RV trailer tire failure! When storing your RV trailer, try to keep the tires covered, off of the wet ground, keep weight to a minimum if possible, and rotate them occasionally while being stored by moving the trailer forward or backward a little. So, when should you replace tires on your RV trailer is ...
Why do RV trailers have fires?
Some RV trailer tire blowouts have even caused catastrophic fires due to pressurized gas lines that ruptured and ignited in the process of the tire failing. Pam and I recently spent three an a half hours on the side of a major highway, in a construction zone, during a very hot day!
How Often Should Travel Trailer Tires Be Replaced
If you are a travel enthusiast, lightweight travel trailers come in really handy and also fit every traveler’s needs perfectly. And when it comes to travel trailers the name of the tires comes automatically. As it is one of the most essential parts of it which helps to carry the entire weight of your travel trailer.
Tips to make tires last longer
Once your tires hit the 5 to 6-year mark, there is nothing much that you can do to maintain them except the replacement. But, there are some maintenance tips that you can follow from the beginning, to prolong the life of your RV tires. So, here are some maintenance tips for you all-
Tire Tread
Cracks, Punctures, and Foreign Objects
- Cracks, punctures, and foreign objects can create spaces that allow air to escape from your tires. If you don’t catch it soon enough, any of these could lead to a blowout or worse. Remove foreign objects as soon as you notice them wedged in your tire tread to prevent further damage. If you notice a crack or if your tire is punctured, it may be repairable by plugging the hole and patching …
Valve Stem
- In addition to inspecting tires for cracks, be sure to check the valve stem for cracks as well. This is important because the valve stem is used to inflate the tire. If a tire cannot be properly inflated due to cracks in the valve stem, it’s time to replace the tire.
Damage Or Deformities
- Keep an eye out for damage and deformities such as bulges, cuts, and flat or extremely bald spots and replace your tires if you notice any of these.
Age
- Age is also a factor to consider when determining if your trailer’s tires need to be replaced. Each tire manufacturer will likely have different recommendations on the service life of a particular type of tire, but statistics suggest the average life of a trailer tire is about five years under normal use and maintenance conditions, and that tire replacement should be considered after three years, e…