I've searched the forum, but I haven't found the answer I need. I need to replace my 2015 13ft tires. They are the original tires. We bought the trailer used 1 1/2 years ago. It had barely been used. We have not been able to use it as much as I'd like, too, either. So there is a lot of tread left, but I know tires age out, and I want to replace them. I just am not sure what I need. I've read about China bombs, so I know I want quality tires, & will spend what is necessary to get them. Do I get radials? What is the difference between C & D? I know I get them balanced when they are installed. Are there any specific brand recommendations? Will a regular car mechanic install & balance the tires or do I need to find an RV service? TIA for any help. I am mechanically challenged but working on it.
Here's some info from when I went with Maxxis 185/80-13 radial tires; https://scampowners.com/forums/18580-tires-13
Any good tire shop can do the balancing, etc. Suggest sticking with major brands that sell lots of tires, with lots of good reviews from the US. The speed ratings for ST tires are a mess, search RVtiresafety.net for articles on that subject.
Great suggestion. Did these tires fit on your original rims?
They are also C rated, like the original's on mine. Typically there is a higher load rating at 50 psi then D rated 175/80-13 tires at 50 psi, but likely with a softer ride.
You absolutely should replace with Radial. and have them mounted and balanced. Bias ply are often cheaper but you get a sub standard product. D rating is the effective cords/ply/structure D is better and can often be safely run at higher pressure and are more stable at the usual 50 lb pressure stated. Dont skimp here as the damage that occurs with a separation or blow out can be massive and dangerous.
2019 Scamp 13 standard
I agree that you should buy radial tires. They provide a smooth ride, hold the road well, run cooler (higher speeds), have longer life, and have tougher construction (often steel belts). Bias ply are cheaper and used to have a higher load capacity. D load tires have a higher load capacity than C load and do not cost much more. D loads have a tougher side wall, take higher air pressures, and have higher maximum speeds. For example, Carlisle says that D (175/80R13) tires have a 210 lb higher load capacity than C tires (or 420 lb greater load capacity for a single axial/two wheel trailer). A C load tire would be fine for a Standard 13-ft Scamp. I use D loads on my 16-ft Deluxe Scamp because of its extra weight and because I travel on Interstates regularly. I agree that you should stick to a name brand tire. I don't know any rating system for trailer tires that is as good as Consumer Reports is on vehicle tires. I also rotate my tires so that the tires on the trailer and the spare get equal wear.
I used these from Costco and they worked well--be sure to have them balanced when installed!