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Does trailer tire size matter?įitting a trailer with correct-size tires is critical. A speed rating of M means it is acceptable to 81 mph. A load index is typically a two-digit number following the tire’s diameter number, and the speed rating is represented by a letter. The tire also has a load index and speed rating. And finally, the 15 represents the tire’s diameter in inches. The next number, 205, represents the tire’s width in millimeters, then 75 is the aspect ratio of its height to width, and the R is the construction type in our example, “R” stands for radial. The first two letters, ST, indicates the tire type, in this case, “special tires for trailer highway service.” In some instances, people use LT tires on trailers, which stands for a light trucks. To explain, let’s use the standard tire found on two-horse trailers, the ST205/75-R15. If you decide to check the current tires on your trailer, it’s helpful to know what the numbers and letters mean. What do the numbers on the side of the tire mean?
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Click this link to see a chart with the load capacity tire ratings. A tire with a load index of 89 has a load capacity of 1,279 pounds and would be ideal for a trailer this size. needs each tire rated to carry at least 1,000 lbs each. Each tire has to be rated to handle that amount of load.įor example, a trailer with four tires and a GVWR of 4,000 lbs. You determine tire size by dividing your trailer’s maximum weight capacity by the number of tires on your trailer. Once you have the GVWR, you can determine the size of tires you need for the trailer. The GVWR is the maximum amount a loaded trailer can safely weigh or the trailer’s total weight, including horses, tack, and anything else inside or on top of the trailer.
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The plate has the trailer’s VIN and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). You can also choose the correct size tire for your horse trailer by looking at its identification plate, usually on the front or tongue. The numbers on the side of the tire identify its size however, if you change brands or want a different style tire, you can use these numbers as a cross-reference.
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The best way to find your trailer tire size is by looking at your trailer’s existing tires’ sidewall.
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