Upgrading 14" tires to 15"

[McPost]

I have a 2007 single axle 16' Bambi. I've had numerous tire issues over the years which can be a real experience with a single axle trailer. Fortunately no one has been hurt, but there has been damage. A lot of the problems have been my own fault for improperly taking care of my tires. I read this Forum regularly to learn from the great experience within the community. Even with improved tires and maintenance I have convinced myself that upgrading from 14" tires to 15" would significantly reduce risk. The spin rate on the 14" tires even at my max speed of 65 mph is potentially excessive. The wheel wells on the 16' Bambi could easily handle the 15" tires, but tolerance to some of the trim pieces would only be 1" or 2". Any experience or guidance on the value of making such a change?

[CapriRacer]

One of the advantages of making the 14" to 15" switch is the ability to use lower inflation pressure to better a softer ride.

Alternatively, use of the same pressure gets to increased load carrying capacity - and reduced risk of a failure.

[ROBERT CROSS]

^
X2

I have 2 Seasons and 10k on the Goodyear Endurance ST.
Very satisfied with the performance.



Bob
🇺🇸

The Spare...

[Jmacd]

We have a 2008 16' International and upgraded 3 years ago after the recommendation of our service/maintenance provider, Vinnie's North Bay Airstream in Wilton CA. Vinnie installed ST225/75R15 Goodyear Endurance tires and 15" Sendel wheels and we've never looked back. We run 60psi. Plenty of room to remove and reinstall the tires. And we recently upgraded the spare with to a 15" steel wheel from ETrailer and a Goodyear Endurance tire. Fit the Airstream spare tire rack without bending the retainer bars, so all's good!

[ROBERT CROSS]

^
POI

Those 'painted' wheels don't stay painted long.
Had ours blasted and powder coated chrome ...see above.

Bob
🇺🇸