Tires: Fifth wheel trailer tires, fifth wheel trailer, carlisle tires

Question
QUESTION: 2008 Forest River Wildwood 336QBDS experienced a tread separation, wrecked the skirting, the underbelly. Camper can have loaded weight of 12000 lbs. I don't want the Carlisle tires that are on it as the other three look like they are doing the same thing. I have a long trip coming up and want to replace with an exceptional tire. Should I go to 16" rims

ANSWER: Lolita,

To answer this I will need the following:

1. What size tires are on the camper now ?

2. How old are the tires on the camper ?

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: They are ST225/75D15 CARLISLE SPORT TRAIL and the remaining 3 tires were manufactured in 07, I cant tell you the original because it had to get sent back for warranty inspection. Two of the remaining tires were made in the 25th week and the third was in the 50th week. Our trailer loaded can weigh 11500 lbs

Answer
Lolita,

 I am not a fan of the Carlisle trailer tires.  I have had some not so favorable experiences with them as well.  Maxxis Tire and Goodyear build products that I have been very pleased with and that I have gotten very good service from.  Maxxis will be the less expensive line but, both are comparable in performance.  

If your camper has adequate clearances for tires that will be approximately 3/4" to 1" taller than the present ones then installing a 16" rim and tire combo should not present a problem.  A benefit of a 16" tire is that you will be able to install (E-load range) or 10 ply tires in lue of the (D-load range) or 8 ply tires.  This will give you the peace of mind that you certainly have tires that are capable of safely handling most loads you may haul.

 I must say that I am still a little unclear as to the age of the tires on your camper.  If these tires were in fact built in 2007 then you may have viable claim for reimbursement of damages from either the RV dealer or Carlisle.  I would find the number for Carlisle's customer service and address this with the company if the tires are 2007 production.  However, if these tires were produced in 1997 then there is very little that you can do except changing the tires.

Hope this helps,
Brett