Originally posted by GlueGuy
Not all "Class C" tires are the same. It depends on the tire diameter (14", 15", 16"), and the cross section.
On our so-called 15" class C tires, the weight rating stamped into the tire is 2350 lbs. That will accommodate up to a 4700 lb trailer (single axle), which is in the same range as a 14" class D.
So check the weight rating on your tire(s). Take the gross weight of your trailer (3800 lbs in our case), and add 10 or 15 percent. For us that would be ~~ 4370 lbs. Since our class C tires are rated for 4700 lbs, we are probably just fine.
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Some valid points and your right it does depend on tire size and how many ply's, ect. that determine load ratings.
Some other points to look at when considering increasing your load rating is also what is the speed rating for your tires of the size you use? The higher the load and speed rating the cooler a tire will run which means greater safety and reliability. Though beyond a D load rating on tires in 14" or 15" for our trailers I would consider overkill to say the least. Consider the very top rated tire the Goodyear Endurance tire in ST205/75R14 in a D load range is 2040 lbs. at 65 psi. and is an 8 ply tire with a N speed rating of 87mph. The same tire in a 15 inch size has as load range at 2150 lbs. at 65 psi. with the same ply's and speed rating.
I'm considering seriously going with the Carlisle Radial Trail HD ST205/75R14 tire which also a 8 ply tire with a D load range of 2040 at 65 psi. with an M speed rating of 81 mph. for about half the price plus then for the Goodyear Endurance's. The reason why is since we are only pulling two tires that the rubber meets the road I want piece of mind when having to cruise high speed long distance on the interstate. Though I am still debating on swapping out the C range spare tire for a D since its only for emergency use.