How to Read Trailer Tire Load Codes
Knowing the amount of weight your trailer tires can handle is extremely important. You do not want to overload the tires as this poses a safety concern. Tires can blowout if they have too much weight on them, and this can cause accidents.
- Locate the trailer tire description code. This will be a series of numbers and letters located on the sidewall of the tire. It can be on either side, so look thoroughly.
- Find the load index part of the code. The last two numbers of the description code is the load portion. Note that the letter behind these numbers is the tire speed rating.
- Use a tire load index chart to decipher the code. These charts can be found online, or through the tire manufacturing company. You will just need to find the index on the chart and follow over to reveal the weight capacity of the tire.
- Ask professional questions regarding the load index code. These can be confusing for an untrained individual. Do not be afraid to ask a tire technician or manufacture representative any questions you may have about the load index or any other aspect of the trailer tire for that matter.
- Purchase several sets of tires. If you will be hauling various capacity of weight with your trailer, it is advisable to have different sets of tires to use with the different loads. This can prevent wear and tear on one set, and it will save you money.