Re: Need new trailer tires - Best online site??
Kellerqx,
B78-13ST is an obsolete tire size that was replaced by a metric size (like the 175/80-13 they tried selling you) some years ago.
Look on the sidewalls for the load capacity, then make sure what you get is equal or higher.
As far as car/trailer tires... it's a hotly debated subject.
A gentleman I've worked with on occasion who is very knowledgeable on tires explained to me that yes, trailer tires are different in two main areas where they are stronger: Beads (reinforcement, often steel wires where the tire contacts the wheel), and in the area where the sidewalls meet the tread (I think it's called the heel, but not sure). Reason for higher strength (his explanation) is because trailers do not have springs and/or shocks. This causes trailer tires to bounce much more than car tires, and added strength in these two areas are supposed to improve life. This would point one to get trailer tires only.
On the other hand, I've run across many boaters and campers who use trailer tires (often GY Marathons) of more than sufficient load rating, and have repeated failures, even when maintained properly.
One of my colleagues has used Marathons for years, and his brother-in-law has used passenger car tires. They trailer similar distances, often together. My colleague is meticulous about maintenance, yet has lost a number of tires pulling alongside his Brother-in-law, while HE has lost NONE! Which would you rather be?
Trailer tires are also much more expensive than equal quality passenger car tires, and easier to find.
Could it be that trailer tires are not manufactured to as high quality standards as passenger tires?
I will be updating my trailer from F78-13 to metric 14" tires, and I will probably go with passenger car tires with way more load rating than I need.
Either type I will probably always second-guess myself, and wonder if it was the right thing to do.
Jorge
