Jack

Light Truck tires....that's odd.

Yes, by all means replace.  Recommendations are to replace at 5 year intervals regardless of miles on tires.  I replaced our originals (trailer tires btw, not light truck tires as you have) when they were 6 years old.  When we purchased our 177 in January 2011 the tires were already a year old.  Replaced and had 20,000 + miles and still looked like new, tread wise.  Second set purchased were Hartland tires from Discount Tire, a "C" rated tire.  Yes, they are manufactured in China, as are most tires and after 4 years and 15,000 miles, have performed well.  Our next set will probably go with Carlisle "D" rated.   Many have gone to the Goodyear Endurance.

What you don't hear is when people have tire issues is have they been properly maintained.  Have they checked tire pressure?  "C" rated is to be 50 psi.  "D" rated is 65 psi and you can safely travel at faster speeds than the "C" tire.  Some have even gone to an "E" rated tire but some have reported that since it is such a stiff tire, it tends to shake things apart inside the pod when traveling on rough roads. 

Replace a 3 tires, even though your spare hasn't been used and is brand new (no mileage) the rubber has still been deteriorating due to age and possibly sun, unless it has been covered.

I change the tires myself.  Tire chain stores may or may not know how to properly change the tires on your R-Pod.  If they can place the jack as close to the tire as possible while lifting, you will be ok.  If they can't or won't, I would do it myself.

I would avoid any L/T tire, go with the safer and stiffer side wall S/T tires.

If this was anything other than an rPod with its axle weakened by its inboard frame attachment, i'd agree with you. But in this case, jacking right under the axle to frame attachment point is better. 

I checked the"official sticker" on the side of trailer that lists all specifications for the 2014 R-Pod Forest River Edition and for tire specs it reads LT 235/75 R15. So the tires are original.

Unfortunately, the nearest Goodyear tire center is 4 hours away. There is a reputable tire center in town that has ST tires. They recommended ST 225/75 R15 at about $120 each for everything.

Unfortunately, the nearest Goodyear tire center is 4 hours away. There is a reputable tire center in town that has ST tires. They recommended ST 225/75 R15 at about $120 each for everything.

There is nothing wrong with Discount Tire if you have one near you. I got Carlisle LR-D tires from them and have been happy with them.

Stay safe, stay healthy and happy camping!

JengaJack et al ... Was there in difference in the ride or control between the LT vs ST tires ??  Did you get the 235 tires or did you have to go to the 225 size ??

ST tires' stiff sidewalls will hold up to remaining in one position for long periods as well so if you live in a climate where you will be storing the trailer unused over the winter for many months that could be a consideration. 

To James07 and others,

I went with LT235/75R15, Open Range-All Terrain from Les Schwab. (Les Schwab is a chain here on the west coast and a few other western states)

The ride is much smoother over original tires and gas mileage has improved. Not much, slightly less than 2mpg, but I'll take it!

In any case though I'm glad you're happy with your tire choice. 

point of info: My experience is that the tires that came with the new rpod were junk. Both tires developed bubbles inside the tire as if separating from the outside tire tread.. Watch for any curious looking tire deformation even if everything else looks perfect. Took pictures and got a partial refund from the tire manufacturer.

2016 rpod 178

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