How to Prevent Your Trailer Tires from Blowing Out: Essential Tips and Maintenance

A blowout is not something you can prevent completely, but there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood and severity of these occurrences. Properly maintaining your trailer tires can make a significant difference in their lifespan and overall performance. Here are some essential tips to keep your trailer tires in top condition and prevent blowouts.

Regular Check-Ups

Never underestimate the importance of regular checks on your trailer tires. Make it a practice to inspect them at least twice a day, especially if you are operating a trailer with a heavy load. Early detection of issues like slow leaks can save you from more severe problems down the line. A slow leak may not seem significant, but it can significantly impact your trailer's safety.

Proper Inflation and Tread Depth

One of the most critical factors in preventing blowouts is ensuring that your trailer tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth. Underinflated or bald tires are much more prone to blowouts. Make it a routine to have your tire pressure checked and adjusted as needed. Tires that are underinflated will generally overheat, leading to a higher risk of failure. Additionally, tires that have worn down to the cord material will not provide the necessary support and should be replaced immediately.

A Neglected Tires: A Service Perspective

Many trailer tires, especially those from lower-end manufacturers, can be a point of concern. These tires often started their life as used mobile home axles, which have inherent issues. The tires on these axles were likely not meant for lengthy use in a mobile home and were merely a temporary solution. Additionally, the brakes on these trailers may have been marginal from the start and further deteriorated during the trip. Bottom line, be aware of what you have, and maintain it properly. Select high-quality tires and ensure they match the weight you will be hauling to avoid unnecessary risks.

Proper Maintenance and Storage

To further reduce the risk of blowouts, take steps to maintain your trailer tires properly. If you do not roll your trailer often, block the wheels off the ground to prevent the formation of flat spots and reduce dry rotting from ground contact. This is especially important if you are parking on a paved area, as tires can still dry rot from minimal contact with the ground. Ensuring your tires remain in good condition will significantly improve your towing experience.

Invest in Quality Tires and a Spare

While it's tempting to opt for cheaper tires to save money, it's often better to invest in quality tires. Trailer tires are cheap because they are designed for a specific purpose and may not withstand heavy loads as well as more durable options. When hauling items, especially hazardous ones like horses, the potential for injury or worse is significant. Therefore, it's crucial to do your due diligence in selecting quality tires.

Lastly, ensure you have a good matching spare tire in case of emergencies. Having a high-quality spare tire can mean the difference between calling for immediate assistance or being able to limp to the nearest repair shop. If all else fails and you are stranded, having a short chain and a 'bucking' dog (a tool to help lift the tire off the ground) can be lifesavers. Use this method with dual axles but not with single axles.