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When a trailer tire blows, it happens without warning. The result can range from being an inconvenience to being devastating. Though a blown tire cannot be completely preventable, the following will reduce the odds considerably. 62 www.EliteEquestrian.us EE TRAILER Talk What you probably don’t know about your trailer tires �������������������������� FACT 1. The right tires. Trailer tires have a heavier construction than automobile and truck tires because they have a different purpose. Radial tires are preferred because they have less heat buildup, get be��er gas mileage, longer wear, and provide a so��er ride. A trailer tire code will contain an “ST” (special trailer) and an “R” (radial). Example: ST22575R15. Tires have weight ratings so without overdoing or underdoing the weight, purchase the tires that will best match the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of the trailer. The GVWR is the weight manufacturers state that a trailer can weigh fully loaded and still be safe. The GVWR is stated on a sticker on the trailer. Not all trailer tires with the same ratings and specs are the same quality so doing research will determine which are be��er than others. Currently, there are no trailer tires being manufactured in the United States. FACT 2. A level trailer. Each tire has a weight rating that specifies the amount of weight the tire can sustain safely. A trailer must sit level so that the combined weight rating of all four tires (and both axles) supports the total weight of the trailer. An unlevel trailer will shi�� more weight onto to one of the axles and two of the tires, causing those tires to overloaded tires, heat up and blow. A common mistake is to assume that larger, higher rated tires will create a greater margin of safety but if the combined tire rating of all four tires greatly exceeds the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the trailer, the horses will have a pre��y uncomfortable ride. FACT 3. Correct air pressure. The tire manufacturer determines the maximum air pressure the tire can hold safely, which is called “psi” (pounds per square inch) and is stated on the tire. The tire pressure should be filled and kept at maximum so that they flex less and therefore run cooler reducing the chance of a blowout. A correctly inflated tire will also increase gas mileage and increase the life of the tire. FACT 4. Knowing tire age. The general consensus is that tires lose their integrity and deteriorate to a point of being unsafe after six years whether used a lot, or not at all. Though tires do not have expiration dates they do have build dates stated in a code on the tire indicating the week and year it was made. Always ask the tire salesman for the build date, or check it yourself, before buying tires. Trailer tires are sold a lot less frequently than automotive tires so they could have been si��ing at a distributer for a few years before being sold as new. FACT 5. Knowing the speed limit. Trailer tires have speed limits. Exceeding the tire’s speed limit can cause a tire to overheat, which may cause it to unravel. This information can be found in the tire manufacturer’s brochure or manual. Or simply ask your local tire salesman. FACT 6. Maintenance of stem caps. Though many believe that the tire’s stem cap keeps the air from leaking out, it is only partially correct. The tire stem’s primary purpose is to keep the dirt and grit from damaging the spring mechanism in the stem, which could then allow the air to leak. FACT 7. Checking for uneven wear. Inspect and feel the tires for unusual wear. What causes a tire to wear unevenly is a bent axle, under inflated tires, or a faulty tire. FACT 8. Check air pressure. Air pressure should be checked before leaving the barn and before coming back. A tire is more apt to pick up something destructive on the road than from si��ing at the barn. Rubber torsion (independent) suspension, which most all trailer now have, gives horses a smoother ride and allows the trailer to track on three wheels (tires) if one goes flat. But the independent suspension also makes it near impossible to determine if a tire is flat by looking at it because the other tires are holding the trailer level. If a tire gauge is not available, at least check by pushing in on the sidewall with your foot. �������������������������������������������� �������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������


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