Trailer Tire Guide: Usage, Maintenance & Replacement Tips

Trailer Tire Guide: Usage, Maintenance & Replacement Tips

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about trailer tires – from whether you can use them on pickups to proper maintenance and replacement procedures. We’ll answer all your pressing questions about trailer tire longevity, balancing needs, load ranges, and where to buy quality trailer tires, with expert insights from Ningbo BRS Auto Parts Co., Ltd, China’s premier steel wheel manufacturer since 2002.

Table of Contents

Can You Use Trailer Tires on a Pickup?

While it’s technically possible to mount trailer tires on a pickup truck, we strongly advise against it. Here’s why:

  • Different Construction: Trailer tires are designed for straight-line towing, not the steering and cornering demands of pickup trucks
  • Safety Concerns: The sidewalls and tread patterns aren’t optimized for vehicle handling
  • Warranty Issues: Most manufacturers void warranties if used on non-trailer vehicles
  • Legal Implications: Some states prohibit this practice for commercial vehicles

For proper tire selection for your pickup, consult our comprehensive guide.

Do Trailer Tires Need to Be Balanced?

The question of whether trailer tires need balancing depends on several factors:

Tire TypeSpeedBalancing Recommended?
Small utility trailerUnder 45 mphOptional
Travel trailerHighway speedsHighly recommended
Heavy-duty trailerAll speedsEssential

At Ningbo BRS Auto Parts, we recommend balancing all trailer tires that will see highway speeds to prevent vibration and premature wear.

How Long Do Trailer Tires Last?

Trailer tire lifespan depends on multiple factors:

  1. Usage: Frequent long-distance towing wears tires faster
  2. Storage: Proper cover and inflation during storage extends life
  3. Weight: Consistently hauling near capacity reduces longevity
  4. Climate: UV exposure and temperature extremes degrade rubber

Most quality trailer tires last 3-5 years or 25,000-50,000 miles with proper care. Our maintenance guide provides detailed care instructions.

Understanding Load Range D on Trailer Tires

Load Range D indicates a tire’s capacity and construction:

  • Ply Rating: Equivalent to 8-ply construction
  • Max Load: Typically 2,540-3,000 lbs per tire
  • Pressure: Requires 65 PSI when cold
  • Applications: Ideal for heavier travel trailers and equipment haulers

For help selecting the right load range for your specific trailer, consult our experts.

Where to Buy Quality Trailer Tires

Purchase trailer tires from reputable sources:

  1. Specialty trailer shops: Offer professional advice and installation
  2. Online retailers: Often have competitive pricing on quality brands
  3. Tire dealerships: Can provide mounting and balancing services
  4. Manufacturer direct: Like our steel wheel manufacturing division

Always verify the manufacturing date (DOT code) when purchasing trailer tires.

How to Change a Tire on Different Trailers

The tire changing process varies by trailer type:

Utility/Camper Trailers:

  1. Park on level ground and chock wheels
  2. Loosen lug nuts before jacking
  3. Jack up at designated points only
  4. Remove old tire and install replacement
  5. Torque lug nuts to specification

Tractor Trailers:

  1. Use proper jack stands rated for the weight
  2. Always work in pairs for safety
  3. Inspect brake components while tire is off
  4. Consider professional service for dual wheels

For a complete step-by-step tire changing guide, visit our resource center.

Trailer Tire Maintenance Best Practices

Extend your trailer tire life with these maintenance tips:

  • Check pressure before every trip (when tires are cold)
  • Inspect for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear monthly
  • Clean tires with mild soap and water
  • Use covers when stored for extended periods
  • Rotate tires annually if possible

Our cleaning and maintenance guide provides additional details.

Recommended Trailer Tire Products

As China’s first strategic partner of Geely Group, Ningbo BRS offers premium trailer tire solutions:

BRS Heavy-Duty Trailer Tires

  • Load Range D and E options available
  • Specialized tread for stability and longevity
  • Steel-belted construction for durability
  • Multiple size options for different trailers

BRS Trailer Wheel Packages

  • Pre-mounted and balanced tire/wheel combos
  • Powder-coated steel wheels for corrosion resistance
  • Includes all necessary hardware
  • Backed by our 2-year warranty

Explore our full trailer tire and wheel selection for more options.

Contact Our Tire Experts

Ningbo BRS Auto Parts Co., Ltd has been manufacturing quality wheel solutions since 2002. Our 100,000 square meter facility produces durable trailer tires and wheels for global customers.

For professional advice on trailer tires:

  • Email: info@brsrim.com
  • Phone: +86-574-12345678
  • Website: brsrim.com
  • Factory Address: Ningbo Economic Development Zone, Zhejiang, China

Learn more about our heavy-duty trailer wheel options designed for professional use.