Which is best for trailer tires, radial or bias ply?

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Les

2006 22ft towlite (replaces 97 21TL)
2006 Toyota tacoma pre-runner 4.0 L V-6 quad cab
w/ 98 chevy Powervision towing mirrors

Can't say which is best, I do think that nylon bias tires will take speeds over 65 better than radial tires.
People say don't buy China made tires but the new Good Year ST trailer tires are made in China. Check the manufactures web site. The new 4ply radials now have and extra ply of nylon over the steel belts, probably to stop the steel belts from breaking, I had many in the past that this happened to although non went flat or blew out. The Good Years on my 2209 with the extra nylon ply now have over 7,000 miles and no problems. I had Good Years in the past that failed with less millage than this. Best advice is keep the tires inflated to the max spec on the tire and drive at 65 or under.
Here is some usefull information
http://www.trailerlife.com/output.cfm?id=2355013

Has anyone upgraded to the 225s instead of the 205s with new wider wheels? Was thinking of doing this just to have a little more tire capacity so they're not running at the limit.

What jack is everyone using for tire changing? I have a 2807 and was wondering scissor or hydraulic.

If you go to a larger size just be sure it will fit between the shirting and the brake drum. I would test one first before buying all 4.
As for the jack it doesn't matter which you use, just be sure to place the jack where the manual says. Trailer frames are light an springy, jacking to far back on the frame on the door side will jam the lower door and may cause damage.

I don't use a jack. I use a "Trailer-Aid". It is like a large rubber chock that you back or pull the non flat tire up on. This elevates the flat tire enough so that you can change it with no problems. Just have to remember to loosen the lug nuts on the flat before elevating it. Using this, you don't have to worry where to place a jack or is the trailer high enough. Use it once and it has paid for itself. This is truly a no muss, no fuss item for the trailer.

Bob

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2001 2901L Classic
2011 Ford F150

Captbobster, I agree with these answers and fully endorse the Traileraid for my choice of jacking items. I even bought the Traileraid plus for the additional 1 inch of height when doing the job, worked great when I practiced in the driveway. I bought mine off Amazon.com for $40.00 with free shipping earlier this month. I have to thank my fellow forum members for the questions asked and good advise I have gotten from reading their responses. Great bunch of folks.

Thanks guys, didn't even think of the Trailer Aid, this is my first tandem axle and it never came to mind. I just order one of the plus models from Amazon no tax no shipping for $41, can't beat it for simplicity and ease.

By the way, I love this forum and the helpfulness of everyone. Hope I can contribute in the future.

Capt,

The Trailer-Aid ramp works really well if your rotating tires, or have a single flat. These are fairly new to the market, and I now take one along on our road trips.

Years ago, long before the Trailer-Aid, I got in the habit of carrying a hydraulic scissor jack and scraps of 2 X 6 's in case we ever had a trailer flat. My old habits are hard to break and I still carry the stuff... thank goodness, because last fall I had a double flat (same side) and would not have been able to put the spare on without the jack. The Trailer-Aid ramp will not raise the trailer high enough (to put a spare on the other wheel) if you only have a rim to drive onto it. I know, because I tried.

Trailer-Aid ramps are VERY convenient, but don't think for a second that they are a substitute for a real jack.

Jim

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1967 17' Hi-Lo Bon Voyage (1967-1969)
1969 19' Hi-Lo Bon Voyage (1969-2011)
2004 27' Hi-Lo TowLite (2010-present)
2007 Chevy Suburban