Notso replied:

As`far as I know the van carrying capacity is set by the manufacturer of the van not the tyre manufacturer.

I have heard of someone getting an engineering certificate for his modifications and accepted by the RTA, but don't know what he did.

Muddy doe (SA) replied:

Yes, that is one thing to look out for with vans and trailers. Make sure that the tyres fitted are comfortably up to the task rather than "just".

We bought a 2 tonne capacity 7' x 5' tandem box trailer brand new. Comes with 13" Holden or Ford rims (your choice). The tyres fitted were 2nd hand with about 3mm of tread left.

Queried this with the place and the bloke said that this was the done thing for most trailers and caravans that they are delivered with 2nd had tyres to keep the costs down. Said they could fit new ones if we wanted but it would be cheaper for me to do it afterwards.

After a few trips around the place I did not have a lot of confidence in what was on there (not knowing the history of them) so I fitted some nice new Goodyear Light Trucks for $80 each, These have a much higher load rating than the "old commodore taxi tyres" that were on there, as well as being a bit higher profile to aid ground clearence and of course a full compliment of tread.

While I can't say that you can actually increase the load that can be carried in your van (above the manufacturer recommended limits) I CAN say that by fitting some tyres of a stronger LT construction and load rating I would be more confident that I was not going to have a problem if I "happened" to load an extra 100kg or so of personal "crap" (amazing how it adds up when on a trip) into the van.

I am one of those people that stongly believe that tyres are THE most importatnt safety item on a vehicle or trailer and will make all reasonable efforts to ensure that I have good rubber at all times!

Just my 2c worth.

Cheers
Muddy

Mainey (WA) replied:

As I understand it, tyres are rated to carry a maximum load and a maximum air pressure.

I know my Bridgstones are rated for a maximum 65psi whereby the Mitchellins are only about 45psi.
It's stated on the tyre sidewall.

Member - Doug T (W.A) replied:

Bugger the Coopers , over rated , and over priced , any old L T type tyre will do , BF,Gs , Goodyear, Bridgestone.....
Coopers suggested by a tyre dealer who wants to rip you off no doubt

Geoff (Newcastle, NSW) replied:

JimDi,
I'd suspect most any decent Light Truck (LT) style tyre would certainly be better suited to carrying the weight of your van than a standard duty type tyre. That'd be the path I'd investigate, get some prices on various LT constructions.

As to brands, I won't join that argument. Sufficient to say some swear by Coopers others swear at them.

Me? I've got Cooper ST's in 285/75 x 16LT on my trailer and for $65 each for the four I bought I reckon they've been terrific value. They had 10mm tread when I got them and I'd say they've still got 9.5mm after who knows how many kilometers. And I've still got two in the pocket.

Geoff