Questions about trailer tires...

[cactushead]

Okay, I have some questions for you experts out there about trailer tires. First, can anyone tell me if there is a significant difference between trailer tires such as Goodyear Marathons and "regular" tires (assuming size and load rating are equal)?

Also, is there any advantage to using off-road tires on a trailer that will see a good proportion of off-road travel (as in Baha California)? I've seen some "Off-road" pop-ups recently with aggressive tires and wonder if it's based on fact or friction?

Also, will upgrading to a higher load rating (from D to E, for example), reduce the likelihood of a bad-road-related tire failure?

We plan on doing a lot of desert LTVA boondocking and unimproved road travel in Mexico and Central America, and having the whole house riding on only two tires makes us a little nervous. We are interested in the forum's opinions regarding tire upgrades before we go.

Thanks!

[uwe]

Cactushead,
For travel on roads, promarily, the Marathons in the D-load rating are a very good thing.
But i know what you mean about bad roading and off roading from first hand experience. If you will have to do this to an extreme, and a lot, then perhaps a flotation size tire will work better. Flotation tires as those made by BFGoodrich will definitely work better when low air pressure is required to get through sand or desert terrain. You will definitely get more sway on road, due to the taller and much softer sidewalls,and you should take a look at the wheelwells for clearance.
If, however, you won't need extreme flotation, then a Marathon will be fine.
The profile and sidewall construction actulally makes them very good sand tires, just not very tall.
The tires seen on the popups you mentioned are marketing stints, in my opinion. There is very little reason for an extra course mud tire on a trailer.
BTW, i am not a tire expert, just happen to have been through baja's sand quite a bit with my 5600lb tradewind.

[Inland RV Center, In]

CACTUSHEAD.

Using "E" rated tires on any Airstream trailer is not recommended.

Granted you would reduced the likelyhood of tire damage, but you vastly increase the probabilty of frame and shell damage because of the extra stiffness of the "E" tires

Keep in mind that all Airstream trailers "LOVE" a soft ride. That's why the Henschen axle is used.

As you stiffen the ride, more vibration is transmitted to the trailer frame and shell, resulting in eventual metal failures.

Andy