Why bigger tires?

[Campananro]

I bought a 2000 Sunnybrook and was told the previous owner increased the tire size from 15" -16" Why would he have done this and is there any benefit from doing so? What's odd, is that the frame is way off the ground. I have to put a foot of block in the rear to use the stabilizers, and their are now 4 door steps.

[RustyJC]

First, welcome to iRV2. Glad to have you with us.

Because of multiple blowouts and tread separations (quite expensive to repair!!), owners upgrade from the 15" ST-rated tires that come on many towables to a quality 16" LT-rated tire such as the all-steel construction Michelin XPS Rib. This has a number of advantages:

1. Increased load capacity - many OEM 15" tires are running at 90% to 95% of their rated load. The 16" LT tires are usually load range E and have significantly higher load ratings.

2. Availability of higher quality tires - the XPS Rib, for instance, is not available as a 15" tire.

If it were me, I would NOT consider going back to a 15" tire just to lose 1 entry step. That would be trading a minor inconvenience for major potential problems.

Rusty

[wingnut60]

You are extremely lucky in that the previous owner solved a problem for you--keep the tires you have (assuming good condition). Using the blocks under the stabilizers will keep the trailer more steady when set up--the less the stabilizer is extended, the less wobble you will feel when inside.
Joe

[Ray,IN]

I would like to add to the previous correct replies. The switch to 16" tires was probably because the previous owner did not know about 15" tires made in load range G and H https://www.tiresavings.com/tireShop...+Tires&season= , and matching rims for same.

[wingnut60]

The tires at that link appear to be bias-ply?
Joe

[RustyJC]

Quote:

Originally Posted by wingnut60 The tires at that link appear to be bias-ply? Joe

Yeah, looks like it. The following is from the Sigma tires website:

Quote:

Our Exclusive Sailun brand of Radial Truck Tires feature the Advanced Engineering, Superior On and Off Road Performance and Rugged Long Lasting Durability that today’s drivers demand, and our Power King Bias Truck Tires deliver the Exceptional Value and Reliability that are synonymous with the Power King name.

Rusty