Changing a flat tire on a trailer can be daunting for many people, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right tools and basic instructions, you can quickly and easily change your trailer tire. In this article, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions for changing a flat trailer tire safely and effectively so you can get back on the road in no time.
So if you’re ever stuck with a flat trailer tire on the side of the road, don’t panic – just follow these simple steps!
11 Easy Steps to Change a Trailer Tire
Assuming you already have a spare tire for your trailer, here are the steps to change your flat on any type of trailer. If you notice your flat tire on a busy road, slow down and pull off to a less busy area, like a parking lot or side street. This will ensure you’re safe while swapping out the tire.
1. Gather the necessary tools
You’ll need a wrench, a lug nut key, and a jack. Ensure you have all these tools handy before changing the tire. If you don’t have any of these items or a spare tire, you should call a local tow, service, or roadside assistance company for help. Or you can phone a friend to bring you the necessary tools.
2. Prepare the trailer for tire change
Loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire, but don’t remove them yet. This will make it easier to change the tire once you have your jack in place.
3. Position and raise the trailer
Position the jack underneath your trailer as close to the axle as possible, and raise it until it firmly supports the trailer’s weight. Make sure the jack is even and secure; if it moves or shifts, you may cause damage to your trailer.
4. Remove the lug nuts
Once the jack is in place, remove all of the lug nuts from the flat tire with your wrench. Then set them aside so they won’t get lost during the change.
5. Remove the flat tire
Grab the flat tire and carefully remove it from the axle. If you don’t feel comfortable lifting the tire yourself, have someone help you with this step. Then set it aside for disposal or recycling (check your local laws for correct disposal procedures).
6. Mount the new tire onto the axle
Carefully line up the new tire with the axle, then screw in all of the lug nuts. Make sure you tighten them as much as possible so the tire won’t loosen while driving.
7. Lower and secure the trailer
Using your jack, lower your trailer back onto the ground. Then double-check to ensure that all the lug nuts are correctly tightened.
8. Check the air pressure of the new tire and adjust as needed
Make sure the new tire is correctly inflated to the recommended pressure. This should be written on a sticker on your trailer or in your owner’s manual.
9. Test drive your trailer to ensure proper change was made successfully
Once the change is complete, it’s a good idea to take your trailer for a test drive around the block. This will help you verify that everything was done correctly and that there are no issues with the tire change.
10. Store extra tools in an easily accessible area for future use
Once your change is complete, store any extra tools you used in an area that’s easily accessible. This way, if you ever need them again, you will be able to find them quickly and safely.
11. Go on your way
Once you’re certain that everything is secure, put away your tools and go on your way! Changing a trailer tire may seem intimidating initially, but with these steps and the right supplies, it’s really not so hard.
How to Tell When It’s Time to Change The Tires on Your Trailer
When you change your trailer’s tires, it’s essential to be aware of the tread depth and wear. Replace any of your trailer’s tires if they show signs of excessive wear or have less than 10/32 inch depth of tread remaining. In addition, check for uneven tire wear, which could indicate a problem with how your trailer is aligned.
If you drive your trailer over long distances, the tires will wear out faster than if you only use it for short trips. Therefore, inspect your tires regularly and change them as needed. This will ensure that your trailer remains safe and reliable. Finally, consider switching to a higher-quality tire with thicker tread if you frequently drive over rough terrain.
Taking the time to change your trailer’s tires will help keep it in top condition for years to come, so be sure to pay attention to tire wear and change them as needed.
How to Choose Great New Tires for Your Trailer
Choosing the right tires for your trailer can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! Start by considering the types of terrain you will be driving on. If you primarily drive on highways, opt for a standard tire with a good tread designed for highway use. However, if you plan to drive on rough terrain, you’ll want to look for tires specifically designed for off-road use.
Remember to pay attention to the size of your tires and choose ones that match what your trailer was originally outfitted with. If necessary, you can change the tire size when replacing them, but this should only be done if absolutely necessary.
Finally, make sure to research the different brands of tires available and read reviews from other drivers who have used them before. This will help you choose a reliable tire that fits your budget.
How Often Do You Need to Change Your Trailer Tire?
When it comes to changing your trailer’s tires, the answer is “it depends.” Generally speaking, you should change your trailer tire every three to five years, depending on how often you use it and what kind of terrain you are driving on. If you drive your trailer over long distances or over rough terrain, you may need to change the tires more often than if you only use it for short trips.
When you get new tires, the brand provides recommended mileage before replacement. For example, they may recommend 30,000 to 80,000 miles, depending on the quality of the tire.
Innovative Jacks You Could Give a Try
Changing a trailer tire is not for the faint of heart. But, with some innovative jacks available on the market, you can make it so much easier!
Some top options include the roll n’ rock trailer jack and the easy lift jack.
Roll ‘n’ rock trailer jack
The roll ‘n’ rock trailer jack is an excellent choice for those looking for a safe and easy way to change their trailer tires. This jack allows you to change your tire without having to bend over or lift the heavy tire by hand. Instead, it rolls up under the wheel, lifting it just enough so that you can change the tire safely and quickly.
Easy Lift Trailer Jack
The Easy Lift trailer jack is an excellent option if you need to change your trailer tire in a tight space. This jack is designed to fit under the wheel, allowing you to change the tire without moving it by hand. It’s also lightweight and easy to maneuver, so you won’t have to worry about struggling with a heavy or bulky jack.
By investing in one of these innovative jacks, you can save yourself time and energy when it comes to changing your trailer tire.
A Tire Maintenance Guide: How to Get More Years Out of Your Tires
Taking care of your trailer tires is essential to ensuring their longevity. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your tires:
- Inspect them regularly for wear, such as bulging sidewalls or balding treads.
- Avoid driving over rough terrain or potholes if possible.
- Ensure your tires are correctly inflated, and the air pressure is checked regularly.
- Keep your trailer alignment in check, as this can affect tire wear.
- Store your trailer in a garage or shed when not in use to protect the tires from sun, rain, and other elements.
By following these tips and taking good care of your trailer tires, you can get more years out of them and save yourself some money!
Consider Calling a Professional If You’re Unsure
If you’re ever unsure how to change a trailer tire, don’t hesitate to call a professional. A qualified mechanic can safely change the tire for you and ensure that everything is properly working before sending you on your way. This can save you time, energy, and money in the long run.
Changing a trailer tire can be daunting, but with the right tools and know-how, you can easily do it yourself. Make sure to do your research, invest in the proper tools, and always follow safety procedures! Good luck!
