When it comes to hauling cargo, having the right PSI in your trailer tires is crucial. Not only will it ensure a safe haul but also prevent any damage to your vehicle or the items you’re transporting.
So, how much PSI should be used in trailer tires? Keep reading for everything you need to know!
How to measure the PSI in your trailer tires?
There are a few different ways that you can measure the PSI or pounds per square inch in your trailer tires.
The most common method is to use a tire pressure gauge. To do this, simply unscrew the cap from your tire’s valve stem and place the end of the gauge over it. Once it’s secure, push down on the gauge to get a reading.
Another way to measure PSI is by using an electronic pressure sensor. These devices can be placed on the tire themselves and will give you a digital reading of the PSI.
Finally, some newer vehicles are equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS). This feature will display the pressure of all four tires including the trailer tires on the vehicle’s dash.
Importance of maintaining the correct tire pressure in trailer tires
As we mentioned, having the correct PSI in your trailer tires is essential for a safe and successful haul. This is because the right amount of pressure will help to:
- Prevent tire blowouts
- Reduce wear and tear on the tires
- Improve fuel efficiency
- Enhance handling
On the other hand, if your trailer tires are under-inflated it can lead to several problems such as:
- Poor handling
- Increased fuel consumption
- Decreased traction
- Uneven tire wear
So, as you can see it’s important to make sure that your trailer tires are properly inflated at all times.
How to inflate your trailer tires properly?
Now that you know how important it is to maintain the correct PSI in your trailer tires, let’s take a look at how to properly inflate them.
First, you’ll need to identify what the proper PSI is for your tires. This information can be found in the owner’s manual for your trailer or on the tire itself. Once you have this number, use a tire pressure gauge to check the current psi of your tires.
If the reading is lower than what’s recommended, use a portable air compressor to inflate the tires until they reach the proper PSI. It’s important to note that you should never over-inflate your tires. Doing so can cause tire blowouts, which can be extremely dangerous.
If you don’t have a portable air compressor, you can take your trailer to a service station and use their air compressor to inflate the tires.
Most stations will have an air hose that you can use for a small fee. Just be sure to check the PSI after inflating the tires as the station’s compressor may add too much air.
As you can see, it’s relatively easy to inflate your trailer tires properly. Just be sure to check the PSI regularly and top off the air as needed.
How to Determine the Right Air Pressure to Fill a Trailer Tire?
The correct air pressure for a trailer tire depends on the load being carried, the size of the tire and the type of terrain the trailer will be traversing.
In general, trailers used on highways should have their tires inflated to between 50 and 60 PSI while off-road trailers may need as much as 80 PSI.
Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines and that you should always consult your trailer’s owner’s manual to find the recommended air pressure for your specific vehicle.
Additionally, it is important to check the air pressure in a trailer at least once a month and to add air as necessary to keep the pressure within the correct range.
Utility Trailer Tire Pressure Chart
| Trailer Tire Size | Average PSI |
|---|---|
| 14″ Inches | 80-100 psi |
| 15″ Inches | 80-110 psi |
| 16″ Inches | 70-90 psi |
| 17″ Inches | 60-80 psi |
| 18″ Inches | 50-70 psi |
| 19.5″ Inches | 45-65 psi |
| 22.5″ Inches | 35-60 psi |
| 24.5″ Inches | 30-55 psi |
As you can see from the chart, the pressure of utility trailer tires varies depending on the size of the tire. The larger the tire, the higher the pressure should be. Conversely, the smaller the tire, the lower the pressure should be.
It is important to check your trailer’s tire pressure regularly and inflate or deflate them as needed. This will help extend the life of your tires and prevent flats.
FAQs – Tire Pressure for Trailer Tires
Should you put Max PSI in trailer tires?
No, you should not put Max PSI in trailer tires. Doing so can cause tire blowouts, which can be extremely dangerous.
Instead, you should inflate the tires to the pressure specified in the owner’s manual or on the tire itself.
Why do trailer tires have high PSI?
Trailer tires typically have higher PSI ratings than passenger or light truck tires because they need to support more weight. The extra pressure helps keep the tire from getting too hot which can cause a blowout.
It also helps the tire maintain its shape and gives it a longer lifespan. Higher PSI tires will generally give a smoother ride as well.
Why do trailer tires wear out so fast?
There are several reasons why trailer tires wear out quickly.
- They are often overloaded which causes premature tread wear.
- They are often under-inflated which also leads to excessive tread wear.
- Trailer tires are subject to a lot of vibration and impact, which can cause them to wear out more quickly than other types of tires.
What PSI should 10-ply tires?
As a general rule, 10-ply tires should have a PSI of no more than 35. This is to ensure that the tire doesn’t overheat and cause potential damage to the vehicle. Overinflated tires can also lead to decreased fuel economy.
If you are frequently driving on rough terrain you may want to consider increasing the PSI of your 10-ply tires. This will give you more control and stability while driving. Just be sure not to exceed the maximum PSI for the tire.
What should tire pressure be with a heavy load?
The correct tire pressure for a heavy load is 10 PSI higher than the standard pressure. This ensures that the tires do not overheat and explode from the extra weight.
Wrap Up
Trailer tires are typically rated at 65 PSI. For a tandem axle trailer, you will want to use the same pressure on both axles. When looking for a new set of trailer tires it is important to find the load range that is best suited for your needs. You can find this information on the sidewall of the tire.
When inflating your trailer tires, it is important to use a good-quality air compressor and follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely. Improper inflation can lead to decreased fuel economy and premature wear on your tires.
It is also important to keep an eye on your tire pressure while you are driving. Overinflated or underinflated tires can cause handling problems and increase the risk of a blowout.