Trailer Tire Wear: Common Patterns and Solutions

Tire wear on a boat trailer is usually caused by improper inflation, overloading, or mechanical issues with the suspension or alignment. Understanding the type of wear pattern can help you pinpoint the problem quickly and prevent costly blowouts or premature tire replacement.

1. Underinflated Tires

• Wear Pattern: Outer treads worn more than the center.

• Cause: Too much road contact on the shoulders of the tire.

• Solution: Check your PSI regularly with a reliable gauge. Match it to the VIN sticker or Tire Identification sticker on your trailer frame. The recommended PSI is also printed on the tire sidewall.

2. Overinflated Tires

• Wear Pattern: Center tread wears out faster than the shoulders.

• Cause: Tire rides on the center ribs due to excessive air pressure.

• Solution: Adjust pressure to match the recommended PSI listed on the VIN sticker, Tire ID sticker, or tire sidewall.

3. Overloading the Trailer

• Wear Pattern: Inside tread wears faster than the rest.

• Cause: Trailer and tires are carrying more weight than rated.

• Solution:

  • Weigh your loaded trailer at a scale.

  • Subtract your trailer’s empty weight (GVWR – MAX GVCC on the VIN sticker) from the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating to verify you are within limits.

  • Example: A Venture VATB-5225 has a GVWR of 6,175 lbs and a MAX GVCC of 5,225 lbs. That means the trailer’s empty weight is 950 lbs (6,175 – 5,225 = 950). If your loaded weight exceeds the GVWR, you’re overloading.

4. Bent or Worn Suspension Parts

• Wear Pattern: Cupping or scalloped dips along the tread edges.

• Cause: Worn or bent suspension parts (bearings, springs, bushings, etc.) allow the wheel to bounce or wobble.

• Solution: Inspect and replace any worn or bent suspension components.

5. Axle Misalignment

• Wear Pattern: Feathering—tread ribs feel sharp on one edge and rounded on the other.

• Cause: Axle alignment is out of spec, causing the tire to scrub unevenly across the road.

• Solution: Run your hand across the tread to confirm feathering. If present, have the axle alignment checked and corrected.

Here is an additional visual chart showing different types of tire wear for your reference.

Trailer Tire Wear: Common Patterns and Solutions provided by Dexter Axle