Balancing trailer tires

[fixit5561]

I had read somewhere that you are not supposed to balance trailer tires.



Is this true? What are your thoughts?

[Hunter11]

I have had the tires on all our trailers (TT and 5th wheels) balanced including boat trailers and my flat beds for the last 20 years. I think it makes for a smoother ride and helps the tires last longer. Also get metal valve stems installed.

[cwit]

I think any tire balanced is better than one not balanced. I would never have a unbalanced tire on anything.

[Lloyd]

Like Hunter11, I also balance "ALL" my tires. Everything rides smoother and your tires should wear better. There for they will last longer.

[Hamops]

It would be foolhardy not to balance your trailer tires. It vibration caused by unbalanced tires would probably shake everything loose in the trailer. The tires on our 5vr were balanced at the factory.

[mbinohio]

I have all mine balanced, but none were balanced at the factory, other than motorhomes I don't know of any trailer company that balances a factory tire....

[KHUNLINDA2003]

RV manufacturers don't balance because it costs not because it's okay not to balance. It really makes a difference in the amount of bounce. Don't forget you have electrical connections, gas connections, water and sewer connection let alone structural integrity to be concerned about.

[cowboy_71]

Always balance tires for a smoother, safer, ride...

[BipeFlier]

Unbalanced tires accelerate wear on tires, suspension, and everything in the trailer. Spring bushing wear is likely less than half of what it should be with unbalanced tires.



On the positive side, mix up some martinis before you leave and they will be well shaken (not stirred) by the time you get to the campground!

[geondebi]

Mine were not balanced when I bought my trailer and did not balance the tires until I got new ones. I did ask my self the same question and was told by a number of folks they did not need it. But, like others have said here I think it is a good idea and since the tire shop will do it every 5K I think I will add it to my list of things to get done before making the big summer trips.

[seabee]

GET THEM BALANCED AND INSTALL METAL VALVE STEMS, [yes, I know I was yelling]

for the reasons stated in the other replies.

[T-n-T]

OK. Does it matter if the wheel weights go on the inside for a nicer look or outside of wheel? I've heard different opinions on this as well.

[Lloyd]

Originally Posted by T-n-T

OK. Does it matter if the wheel weights go on the inside for a nicer look or outside of wheel? I've heard different opinions on this as well.

They can, and will, be placed on both inside and outside if needed. The balancing machine pretty much dictates placement.

[fixit5561]

Originally Posted by T-n-T

OK. Does it matter if the wheel weights go on the inside for a nicer look or outside of wheel? I've heard different opinions on this as well.

I have seen where they do only put them on the back of the rim. On my truck rims which are stock, theycan only put them on the back. But they do have stick on weights that they put as far towards the front of the rim, but they stick them on the back inside of the rim. If that makes sense.

[lynlou14760]

Originally Posted by fixit5561

I had read somewhere that you are not supposed to balance trailer tires.Is this true? What are your thoughts?

I really can't think of a reason why "...you are not supposed to balance" ANY tire. Like most other members, I balance every tire I use on trailers, trucks, or cars. Having thetendancy to "over kill"most of the time, I have the balance checked everytime I have a vehicle inspected. It may cost a little more, but it's just my belief that the Interstate system already shakes and rattles everything enough without adding the constant shakes and rattles of unbalanced tires. Good, bad, or indifferent, I will continue to do so as long as I'm on the road.