Trailer tyres require a very significant amount of maintenance to preserve their quality and effective usage. With proper care, a lot of serious problems in the future can be avoided by simply understanding how to safely take care of them. Many people make the mistake of assuming that all tyres are the same and require the same type of care. It is this kind of thinking that can lead to very dangerous conditions. Not only can the improper use of tyres and insufficient amount of care ruin one’s tyres, it can also put you in serious danger. Here are some important tips and facts that can help your trailer tyres last longer and keep you safe.

Proper Inflation

Inflation is the leading cause of trailer tyre failure. It is imperative to check your tyres very often to ensure that they are at the correct inflation levels. The best time to check your tyres inflation levels is when your tyres have not been exposed to the sun that particular day and while they are cool. Tyre manufacturing companies suggest adjusting air pressure to the maximum pounds per square inch or PSI. The maximum pounds per square inch is suggested because anything less than the maximum will dramatically decrease the tyre’s load carrying capacity. If your tyres are hot as a result of operation, it is wise to add three psi in addition to the max of inflation. It is also important to note that the max located on the sidewall only applies when tyre is inflated which the recommended maximum pressure.

Load carrying capacity

A tyre’s load carrying capacity can be altered due to many causes. For this reason, it is very crucial for all trailer tyres to be of the identical size. If all trailer tyres are identical in size, all tyres can collectively handle the weight of the trailer. It is also important that the combined capability of the tires either equal to or surpass the Gross Vehicle Weight of the axle. When it comes to the loaded trailer, the combined capability of the tyres should be surpass it by 20 percent. If the weight of the loaded trailer is unknown to you, it is safe to use the Gross Vehicle Weight of the trailer. If you have a tyre that happens to fail on a tandem axle trailer, it is wise to replace both of the tyres on that particular side since that remaining tyre is likely to have been subjected to disproportionate loading.

Checking for possible cracks

In addition to routinely checking for tyre inflation, it is also crucial to regularly check for cracks. If you locate cracks within your trailer tyres, it is recommended to check for the size and depth of the cracks discovered. If the cracks found in your tyres exceed 2/32 inch deep, you should replace your tyres immediately to prevent any additional damage. It is also essential to examine the sidewall for any bulges that signify impact break or cord failure in addition to making sure that the cap and valve system are in superior condition.

There are various factors that can weaken and destroy tyres. Time is an enormous factor in causing the damage of tyres. It only takes about three years to take away about one-third of the strength of a tyre. This should be a serious concern since the average life span of standard trailer tyres is about three to five years. Since the life span of these tyres is around three to five years, it is often suggested to replace them in three to four years of usage regardless of their appearance or tread depth. To make certain that your trailers pulls appropriately, it is sensible tyres at once. Make sure you purchase individual tyres that match the others on your trailer if you choose not to purchase a set. It is also imperative to purchase tyres that have been labeled “ST.” This label indicates that you have purchased Specialty Tyres, and which are stiffer than other tyres and help you prevent the trailer from swaying.

There are many important methods to properly take care of your tyres. In addition to checking tyres regularly for inflation and cracks, maintaining the load capacity, and essential cleanings; replacing tyres in a timely fashion will lower the chances of any major problems. By regularly replacing your tyres within a few years, there is a lesser chance that your tyres will undergo any major damage. Proper storage can also prevent many problems in the future; and it can also keep sunlight from causing serious damage to tyres. In addition to proper storage, cleaning your tyres also keeps them in good condition. Mild soap, water, and tire cleaning products lacking alcohol and petroleum distillates are ideal for cleaning trailer tyres and increasing their life span.