Tire Facts and Other Info

[Finlander]

I just reviewed this page and found some great information but thought the chart to be a bit confusing. The biggest misconception is load rating multiplied by number of tires. 2 with a single axle and 4 for a tandem. Load rating D is critical for a singe axle in that 2200 lbs each tire time 2 equals 4400 lbs of load capacity. With the average rig pushing close to 4000 lbs loaded anything less than D would be hazardous. Tandem rigs are heavier but not that much. 4 1600 lb C rated st tires still carries 6400 lbs total which is typically enough. I still run Endurance D rated on my tandem for 8800 lbs of capacity which is serious over kill but worth the piece of mind.

[texkan]

This information is for those BBC members that are pulling their boats on a single axle trailer. I own a 2017 Triton 189TrX bass boat and a matching Triton single axle trailer. Several days ago, the right-side tire blew out while I was driving on Interstate Hwy 10 between Houston and San Antonio. My speed was approximately 65 mph at the time of failure. The trailer was equipped with Carlisle 215 75R 14 (Load Range C) tires that I was continuing to use because they appeared to be in good condition. I'm diligent about maintaining 50 PSI pressure on the tires and I checked the tires just before this particular excursion. Given the age of the tires, I should have replaced them before now. Live and learn, but I've been pulling single axle boat trailers for 40 plus years and know better than to rely on seven years old tires. Based on thorough research, I elected to purchase two new 215 75R 14 (Load Range D) Goodyear Endurance ST tires. I've always thought this particular boat is somewhat heavy, so buying Load Range D tires seems like a prudent decision given that the loaded weight is 500 plus pounds more than two Load Range C tires. I will maintain 65 PSI pressure, which is what the Endurance tires are rated. I will report back at some point in the future after I've used these tires enough to form an opinion.