What PSI Should My Trailer Tires Be At? [Equestrian Guide]

I know both over-inflated tires and underinflated tires can become a problem, so at one point, I also wanted to know what PSI my trailer's tires should be at, what the tire pressure for horse trailer should be.

This depends on your tire's maximum pressure capacity. This information will be published on the tire sidewall. 

Check the sidewall and carry out the tire inflation accordingly. 

What Does PSI Mean?

Don't worry if you haven't quite grasped what PSI means. This term refers to the minimum and maximum air pressure in your tires required to uphold your vehicle when it reaches its maximum load capacity.

This means that the PSI basically measures how little air you need for the tires to function when your trailer is carrying the max load or is at its heaviest.

I didn't know this at first, but the tire pressure can and will change with the weather, especially in colder climates or winter weather—Tire pressure changes by 1 PSI with every 10-degree Fahrenheit change in temperature.

It also changes when the tires heat up because air pressure rises when the tires become hot.

The PSI is determined by the load capacity of the tires, wear and tear, traction, load capacity, and ride performance.

Most trailers come with a sticker or chart explaining the required PSI and the size dimensions of the different tires. With second-hand trailers, owners can sometimes change the originals to less expensive tires so you might need tire professionals to check your vehicle out. 

However, there's another vital piece of information you need to know if you're doing this on your own and not consulting tire vendors or professionals. 

The PSI on the tire's sidewall isn't a recommendation for just how much air pressure your tires need. It's an instruction about how much pressure the tire can withstand. 

It isn't always best to inflate your tire to the maximum capacity. 

Why Is Maintaining My Tire's Pressure Important? 

It is necessary that you maintain correct tire pressure according to the information that will be permanently embedded onto your tire's sidewall.

Meeting the requirements for your tire's optimum pressure would lead to optimum function. Heavy trailer weights ensure you would need to maintain air pressure to prevent accidents on the road. 

Your tire inflation needs to match with the vehicle you're driving, in this case, a trailer. Here's an example to put things into perspective. 

Imagine you have a single-axle trailer with tires at a maximum PSI, whatever the weight of the trailer. The maximum PSI will carry a specific load weight. 

Reducing the tire pressure to a lower PSI will lower their capacity to carry heavier loads. 

Underinflation

Underinflation will lead to tire failure and reduce tire life. It will also impact the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. 

This is because the engine will have to put in more work to move the weight, thus consuming more fuel. 

Underinflation will also give your tires more room to flex, thus creating hot tires. 

It creates greater friction and increases the amount of tire touching the road. While the tread center is affected more by overinflation, reduced pressure causes greater tire wear on the edges. 

Try watching this YouTube video guide for some great tips on tire maintenance and checking air pressure. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lpa3qiTGU04

Overinflation 

Similarly, overinflation will lead to excessive wear and make them more prone to damage. It will lead to a bumpy and harsh ride. 

This is because excessive air pressure causes the rounding out of the outer tread pattern. This leads to premature wear of the tire's center. 

This uneven wear of the tread center contributes to less control over the vehicle, which could ultimately mean the difference between life and death. 

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems

Did you know most cars come with a preinstalled tire pressuring monitoring system, also known as a TPMS? They can tell you the maximum tire pressure, overinflation, and temperature and basically provide an overview of your tire. 

You can also buy a wireless tire pressuring monitoring system so you're always aware of what's happening with the tires in case prompt action is required. A TPMS was made to curb avoidable accidents. 

Related: How to Prevent Dry Rot on Trailer Tires?

Frequently Asked Questions

 How much air do I put in my travel trailer tires? 

There should be a sticker on your trailer that should guide you about this. However, the sidewall information is the maximum amount of cold pressure the tire can withstand, not necessarily an instruction for inflation. 

How hot should my travel trailer tires get?

Once you've begun to travel and are well on your way, the temperature of your tires will likely rise to 158 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this temperature will vary according to speed and your driving preferences, style, and weight capacity of the tires. 

Why do my trailer tires keep blowing out?  

This is usually the result of overheating or building up of heat. Some common reasons your tires are liable to overheat are underinflation and overloaded tires. 

Conclusion 

I certainly figured out what PSI my trailer tries should be, and I hope you have too! 

Remember always to be safe rather than sorry, and put in the work it takes to ensure your ride is smooth, your tires road savvy, and the pressure maintained. 

References: 

1. Proper Tire Inflation & Tire Pressure Information & Tips . www.bridgestoneamericas.com. . Available from: https://www.bridgestoneamericas.com/en/company/safety/maintaining-tires/tire-inflation#:~:text=PSI%20refers%20to%20the%20minimum
2. leviathan. Proper Boat Trailer Tire Pressure . Boating Mag. 2017 . Available from: https://www.boatingmag.com/properly-inflating-boat-trailer-tires/