Iv very recently my first family caravan which is a 1991 swift rapide 440/4.
The problem that iv come across is that its In need of 2 tyres due to cracking of the tread and sidewalls. I am unable to work out the correct tyre sizes for this van as there is a 165 r13 tyre and a car tyre with a different size tyre on there. Please could somebody tell me the correct size tyres to order. Many thanks, lee
contact your local tyre suppliers...caravan/trailer tyrers are different to car tyres because they are reinforced if you explain the size and speed rating they will know what you need ..probably about £100 for the pair fitted
All depends how heavy your van is when fully loaded?
From Glasses guide your vans 14,3cwt or 725kg empty, assuming 150kg load? that's 875kg all up?
If that's correct and you will need to check, then a pair of 165/80R13 car tyres with a load index number of 83 will just nicely do the job. Pressure required with these tyres at 875kg would be 30psi.
There is though three more tyres of this size all marked 165R13, these have load index numbers of 82, 86 and 87, 82 is no good to you but either of the other two will do slightly better, especially if the vans a bit heavier than 875kg?
As I understand it, legally there is little or no difference between car and caravan tyres. What matters is the load rating. Caravan tyres have to able to take a higher loading if the caravan has a single axle, as obviously all the weight is on just two wheels. A tyre fitter would simply confirm the good advice given by Arc above.
Basically there is no such things as 'car' 'van', 'trailer' or whatever tyres, simply and as been said, it only depends on what the load is and that the tyres can carry that load.
One proviso though for caravans, because the van is more often stood still, the tyres suffer from carrying all that weight on one spot without moving and this can deform the tyres shape.
It is then very very wise to allow a bit extra strength by not picking a tyre that is loaded to it's maximum.
10% extra or a little more is ideal.
IE, your van when loaded I suggested weighs 875kg, the pair of 'car' tyres I suggested with a load index of 83 can carry 974kg so working comfortably within their maximum. Obviously then the other pair at 86 1060kg or 87 1090kg are better still.
Once again thankyou for the info given my friends. Il take note of the tyre ratings and sizes that you have given Gary and head down to my local tyre shop and see what they have for me.
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Topic: tyre sizes
