Can you run a LT type tire on a trailer in place on trailer tires ?
Do they hold up better ?
Do they tow better ?
Thanks.

 

Several of the new trailers are using LT's now. From what I am seeing in the RV Forums is that many RVers are moving over to using LT's as most of the ST trailer tires are made in China and are called Chinese Bombs. Now we are also finding out that many of the so called American Tire companies are building their tires In China and are not much better than the Chinese Tire companies. Many that have 15 inch rims are swapping out to 16's and putting on LT's and not having many problems but as things go there are a few recalls on American made LT tires. I always use the rule of thumb is that if the trailer manufacturer calls for load range D I put on E's in the ST trailer tire world. I am also seeing that the same thought process is happening in the LT world as people are going one up on load range thinking that it adds another level of protection. There are a lot of opions out there between ST trailer tires and LT truck tires, biggest concern is that Supposedly the ST tires have stiffer sidewalls to take cornering better where LT tires are softer in the sidewall and can be pulled off the rim in tight turns.

 

Thanks for the info.
We are looking at a used TT and it will need new tires.
Also from what I have seen the ST tires are rated for 65mph.
I have heard that 16in tires ride a lot better also.

 

This topic, like so many on the Internet, is one for which I am afraid there is no objective answer. There are so darn many variables that affect tire longevity they all add up to a "who knows" answer.

I got a ton of calls for tires during the recent NASCAR race here in Bristol, but often wonder how well the tires that failed were maintained as so many towables sit for months before taking to the road.

No matter what size or rating one uses, run them low on air pressure and they go to heaven fast,

Steve

 

I run LT tires on my fifth wheel. Just make sure they have sufficient load carry capabilities. I also like the fact that thye are not limited to 65MPH although that is about the speed I pull. Also like Steve said make sure to check the tires for damage and maintain proper inflation.

 

Can't disagree here ... low pressure is the killer. And agree that LT vs ST is a topic that rv.net beats to death about daily...

Same here ... I switched from ST to LT a few years ago and haven't looked back. What's important to remember is that you can't just swap ST tires and LT tires of the same size ... LTs have a lower load rating. So that's why folks go to 16" tires, to get a (commonly available) LT tire that has the right load capacity, and no longer be stuck with a 65mph ST tire of suspect quality. Not that I tow over that either, but it's good to have. My truck tires are rated to 113mph or so, my car tires to 160+ (like it matters) why should trailer tires have so little "headroom?"

You'll probably still get the official line from some places that trailers should get only ST tires, but the fact is that LT tires on trailers is a fairly common practice by both manufacturers (on more expensive campers) and by consumers as a modification. IMHO it's the way to go, and every camper I own from now on will have LTs if I can help it.

$0.02