Posted 2016-05-07 10:19 AM (#167011) Subject: when do I need new tires?
Regular
Posts: 80 Location: canada
I've had my trailer for 5 years, I've never replaced the tires and they were not new when I bought it. How do I know when it is time to replace them? Tread is still good, I'm concerned about the age of the rubber. Thanks!
Posted 2016-05-07 10:58 AM (#167012 - in reply to #167011) Subject: RE: when do I need new tires?
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
Many named brand tires will last 6 -7 years on a trailer. Most don't wear out, they die of old age from UV damage and suffer side wall cracking. Some Chinese tires only last a couple of years before their cords are compromised and suffer blow outs. Your locality will also partially determine the tires' life spans. A tire used in a hot, sunny environment, whilst supporting a heavy trailer at high speeds, will usually fail before the same being tire being used in a cooler service, and protected by sun blocking storage devices.
Posted 2016-05-07 10:58 AM (#167013 - in reply to #167011) Subject: RE: when do I need new tires?
Expert
Posts: 1989 Location: South Central OK
I would look for cracking and any arears of the tread and sidewall that seem to be raised or bubbled up, this is a sign of delamination meaning your tire is coming apart internally and it's really bad. If you had your trailer serviced for the coming season they will usually inspect the condition of the tires and tell you if they need to be replaced. If you have a friend of the family that is a mechanic you can always offer some cookies and have them take a quick look. I find a little homemade treat goes a LONG WAY with nearly everyone! Heck, I've bribed nearly everyone around here with farm fresh eggs...I even got a call to get a stray chicken last month. I think it's out of control!
Posted 2016-05-08 5:13 PM (#167018 - in reply to #167011) Subject: RE: when do I need new tires?
Regular
Posts: 80 Location: canada
I've learned a lot during this process, thanks for the help! In addition to the physical signs that were concerning me I learned how to tell the date when the tires were manufactured. Turns out that my tires were made in 2005! Yes my new tires are on order... ;-)
when do I need new tires?
