Learning about tires

The process of learning about getting a spare tire has led me in the direction of getting news tires, and keep the current tires as spares (which are rated for passenger car only).

Here are some highlights about the ST (trailer) rating:

• One of the benefits of an ST tire when it comes to trailering is that it
has about 10 percent more load capacity than an equivalent LT tire

• Furthermore, the ST's mold shape is designed to accommodate trailer
wheels, which are typically narrower than P and LT wheels.

• A free-rolling trailer tire, on the other hand, isn't called on to turn,
swerve and grab the pavement like a steer or drive tire. Since it doesn't
need such a large footprint, it performs its task better by being
narrower.

• For the same reasons, ST tires don't have as deep of a non-skid tread as P and LT tires. A deep non-skid is necessary for driving and steering tires
in wet environments because it provides them with better traction.

• Having a shallower tread depth provides the ST tire with two benefits: (1)
it doesn't wiggle as much, which can help reduce sway, and (2) it rides
cooler, which adds to its longevity.

• Generally, the ST tire also has somewhat stiffer sidewalls, especially in
its lower section. This reduces sidewall flexing, helping it to track
straighter and diminish the risk of trailer sway. The stiffer sides also
lessen the risk of sidewall blowout.


Full article here: