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Another factor in the tire failure equation that I haven't seen mentioned is proper wheel alignment. Yes, axles CAN get out of spec.
Our previous trailer, a Flagstaff 21FB, had two torsion-axles and 13-inch tires. I never noticed it being out of alignment until after a long trip blew one tire after a day-long haul, and left another tire delaminating. A third was wearing hard on the inside of the tread. Turns out, one torsion arm had been bent, and was unable to be brought back into spec, so it was replaced. I never had tire troubles after that.
Did I mention all my tires with problems were Maxxis M8008s, and using a TST-507 TPMS? The strange part is that the pressures, and especially the temperatures, all looked normal until a tire ripped off the septic valves on a remote stretch of Utah highway. Luckily, no one was behind me for at least a couple of miles.
So now it's one more thing to which I pay close attention. This summer our current trailer will get a Dexter EZ-Flex system with all wet bolts, and a VERY-careful inspection using a tape measure and some high-school geometry.
Lesson: Not just high speeds and under-inflation, but scuffing from poor alignment, too, builds heat. Heat leads to premature tire failure, be it Chinese, Thai, or U.S.-made.
Pop
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Terry 250RKS, perfect for the two of us and the pups.
2000 F-350 7.3L CC/LB 4WD Lariat 3.73's
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