Change wheel size for better tires?

[RUSSELL5000]

That looks great. That should make for more confident towing (to say the least...).

Do you use a TPMS? I do - my thinking is that even if we set everything up right we can never control what is laying in the road - can provide an opportunity to get stopped before ruining a tire, wheel, damaging trailer, etc.

 

[RustyJC]

Your question isn't directed to me, but I run the TST 507 TPMS with the flow-through sensors on both the truck and trailer. Being able to monitor temperatures and pressures while in motion not only gives me insight into what's going on with the 17.5" Goodyear G114 tires, but also can help identify other problems such as a dragging brake or hot wheel bearings.

Is a TPMS essential? Perhaps not, but it's another layer of protection to keep me on the road and to prevent damage to the trailer. Besides, it makes it really easy to check tire pressures! :-laf

Rusty

 

[GAmes]

I don't have a TPMS, but have considered them more than once. Then the one that is on my wife's car sends a false alert, and I decide the IR heat gun is sufficient.

 

[RustyJC]

I don't have a TPMS, but have considered them more than once. Then the one that is on my wife's car sends a false alert, and I decide the IR heat gun is sufficient.

I have an IR thermometer as well, but running next to the 5th wheel at 65 MPH taking tire temperatures is something this 67 year old man can no longer do. Now, back in my younger days..... :-laf

Rusty

 

[GAmes]

I know what you mean. However, considering how many trailering miles are behind me, I'm comfortable checking tires and hubs every time nature calls.

 

[MichaelOverfield]

Update on upgraded suspension, wheels and tires.. (post with pictures, page 4)

Everything is going exceptionally well. I have over 5000 miles on the new tires, wheels, and suspension.. new springs, etc. No problems.. it tows well in every aspect.

Add to that, no longer do I worry about a 65 MPH rated tire.. going 70 when that is the speed limit is not a concern. Tires do not even seem to get hot after a rest stop on a long drive.

Just to see what the REAL towed weight was, I stopped at a weigh station, when fully loaded with gear, water, etc.

about 6400 lbs.. (for a trailer with sticker of 5500!) Supposed empty is 4350 (unlikely). The good on that is 3200/axle is under the 3500 rated, with 4800# springs, and tires rated over 2000 each, so the rig is within limits with comfortable room.