Can I Use Tires With Different Load Ranges?

[beamer704]

My Diplomat came with Goodyear 275/80R 22.5 RV tires.

On a recent trip through Utah, the front curb side tire started to separate. The tire dealer only had BF Goodrich ST 230 truck tires 275/80 R 22.5 available. I replaced both front tires & later realized that the original Goodyear tires have a load range of G & the Goodrich's have a load range of H. There is almost 1000# difference in the two. Any suggestions as to how safe is it driving it this way?

I was thinking of buying 2 more Goodyear G670 tires & putting them on the front & putting the 2 Goodrich's on the inner duals. Would there be any problem having 2 rear tires with different load ranges ?

Thanks for any help. Paul

[wolfe10]

Paul,

Welcome to the FMCA Forum.

Since you went UP in load range, that is not a problem. That gives you more safety margin.

I would not suggest mixing old tires of one brand and new ones of another brand on a dual situation. They are very unlikely to be the same diameter. and the larger one will carry much more of the load.

[beamer704]

Brett;

After reading my post it looks like I got the 2 tire load ranges mixed up. The original Goodyear tires had a

load range of H. The 2 new BF Goodrich tires only have a load range of G. The chart in the motorhome behind the

drivers seat GAWR/frnt of 13000# I think that means that the tires you use on the front need to 13000# The

Goodrich's list the G rating as 6175 # each. The Goodyears with a H rating says that they are good for 7100# each.

It is looking like I will have to trade the Goodrich's in & replace them with the Goodyears.

[wolfe10]

AGREED!

I am a little surprised that a reputable tire dealer would do that-- really puts him and you in a compromising and potentially dangerous situation.

[tireman9]

Was the dealer a company store or independent dealer? If company store you might be able to get some assistance from BFG on getting the tires changed to the H load range you need to carry your load. The Utah dealer should know better.

RE Mixing brands:

In a pinch I might do it on the front but would really prefer to have all tires on an axle the same brand, size, and load range. For duals you have a couple of things to consider.

1. Their history... See this post.

2. Their circumference. While inflated but not loaded you need to ensure that both tires in a dual position are within 3/4" measured circumference.

[beamer704]

I bought the tires at a Flying J in Beaver, Utah. When I contacted Flying J, they said only the fuel in their tanks is owned by them & had no control over an independent tire shop at one of their locations. Looks like there is nothing I can do now.

[beamer704]

There is some justice. I was contacted by the company who runs that Flying J & they are sending me $960 as a refund towards new Goodyear tires with the H load range.