Trailer tires are designed to carry heavy loads from one place to another. The trailer tire’s ply plays a crucial part in ensuring safe transportation on all terrain surfaces. Ply means how many layers your tire reinforces in its sidewalls. The more the ply is, the safer your journey will be without facing any unwanted damage or accident.
Many trailer owners face it difficult to pick their trailer tires between 6 ply and 8 ply tires. Let us make your choice easy with our well-researched in-depth comparison between 8 ply vs 6 ply trailer tires. Have a look at the following comparative study on 8-ply and 6-ply trailer tires to have a smart investment.
Difference between 8 ply vs 6 ply trailer tires
The main difference between 6 and 8-ply trailer tires is their maximum loading capacity and safety. The load range capital marks of a trailer tire refer to the ply rating of that tire. For example, a load range ‘B’ indicates it comes with a 4-ply tire with a maximum loading capacity of 35 psi.
A load range ‘C’ means it comes with 6 ply tires with a maximum loading capacity of 50 psi. On the other hand, a tire with a ‘D’ load range indicates it is an 8-ply tire with a maximum loading capacity of 65 psi. Similarly, an ‘F’ load range tire comes with 10 plies with maximum loading capacity.
6-ply tires meaning
A 6 ply trailer tire is similar to a ‘C’ load range trailer tire. A 6 ply trailer tire has 6 layers on its sidewalls to strengthen its maximum loading capacity. You can carry its recommended maximum loads at 50 psi without blowing out the tire.
8-ply tires meaning
An 8-ply trailer tire is similar to ‘D’ load range trailer tires. It has eight layers on its sidewalls to provide strongest tires that are suitable for heavy-duty performance. However, you can carry maximum loads at 65 psi with safety.
Comparison table between 8 ply vs 6 ply trailer tires
| Characteristics | 8 ply trailer tire | 6 ply trailer tire |
| Number of ply | 8 ply | 6 ply |
| Load range | D | C |
| Maximum air pressure | 65 psi | 50 psi |
| Suitable for | Carrying heavier/ larger loads | Transporting regular loads |
Comparative study on 8-ply and 6-ply trailer tires
The difference between 8-ply and 6-ply trailer tires is in their maximum loading capacity. An 8-ply rating trailer tire comes with added extra loading capacity than a 6-ply trailer tire.
In addition, you can carry large and heavy loads with maximum safety with 8-ply trailer tires. An 8-ply trailer tire is more suitable for towing performance than a 6-ply for its strong built-in sidewall structure.
Which one is best for your trailer 8-ply or 6-ply tires?
Choose the trailer tire ply rating or load range based on your trailer requirements. Heavy loads need a higher ply rating than less heavy loads. For example, if you often need to carry heavy or valuable loads from place to place, then 8-ply tires are best for your trailer.
Containing more plies on the sidewalls makes your trailer tire strong enough to carry its maximum loads. On the contrary, pick 6-ply tires if you need to transport less heavy loads on your trailer. Suppose your current tire has 6-ply in its construction with extra loading capacity; it may not be necessary to go for an 8-ply tire.
If you want to upgrade to an 8-ply tire just for its added loading capacity, it can be a waste of money. Always consider your trips and required loading capacity before choosing the ply rating of your trailer tires.
Advantages and disadvantages of 8-ply and 6-ply trailer tires
8-ply trailer tire: Advantages
Disadvantage:
6-ply trailer tire: Advantages
Disadvantage:
8 Ply Tires vs 10 Ply Tires
It is already established an 8-ply tire is equivalent to a “D” load range tire. It can handle pressure up to 65 psi at its maximum weight. On the other hand, a 10-ply (“F” load range”) tire can withstand pressure up to 80 psi at its maximum weight. That allows it to carry larger loads.
Also Read: 8 Ply vs 10 Ply Trailer Tires – Which One Is Ideal?
Trailer Tire ply rating chart
Look at the following trailer tire ply rating chart to pick the right ply for your trailer tires.
| Ply Rating | Load Range |
| 4 ply | B |
| 6 ply | C |
| 8 ply | D |
| 10 ply | F |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A 6 Ply Tire Better Than An 8-Ply Tire?
When comparing an 8-ply vs 6-ply tire for use on your trailer, it doesn’t make much difference. The 8-ply tire only differs from a 6 ply by providing a higher loading capacity. Moreover, both of them will wear out as usual after a certain time. That’s why you pick the load range that will suit your trailer.
Are 8-Ply Tires Good For Towing?
Yes, 8 ply tires are comparatively better for towing performance. They can withstand better up to the stress of towing heavy objects. In addition, their stiffer and stronger sidewalls are suitable for overall towing.
How Much Weight Can You Haul With 6-Ply Tires?
A 6-ply trailer tire also recognizes as the ‘C’ load range, is ideal for transporting heavy loads. It can run cool and can carry up to 1760 lbs at 50 psi per tire. So, you can make your trip safe and damage-free while hauling with 6-ply trailer tires.
Are 6-Ply Tires More Puncture-Resistant?
A 6-ply trailer tire is more puncture resistant than its lower-ply rating tires. Frankly speaking: more plies on the construction makes trailer tires more wear/tear resistant. That’s why more ply makes your trailer tire more puncture-resistant.
Final verdict
Ply rating is an important aspect to consider while choosing a new tire for your trailer. You may get confused between 8 ply vs 6 ply trailer tires. Tire size also plays an important role because a bigger tire with the same ply rating provides extra loading capacity than a smaller size tire.
Go for 8 ply tire if you often need to carry heavy loads. Otherwise, a 6 ply trailer tire is enough for your trailer.
