[sourdough]

Originally Posted by CWtheMan

It would seem so. The problem is, tire industry standards are not about "what ifs". They are about factual, usable, equations. Tire manufacturers submit their findings to the Tire & Rim Association for standardization. The end result is tire inflation tables/charts. Durability is not a strength test. However, it can determine a tire's life expectancy, to some degree. It has a lot to do with brand "X" is better than brand "Y". Word of mouth will have a lot to do with that outcome, if there is a clear one.

Do sidewall inserts make the tire's sidewall stronger? Do taller, more densely packed tread compounds add strength to the carcass? Do more ply cords add physical strength to the carcass? They are all unmeasured variables. Does adding an extra steel belt designed to help prevent carcass penetration damage add load capacity strength? In the end, what we have to work with is on the tire's sidewall information and in the tables/charts provided by the tire industry.

Here is some of the hype about the new Endurance. "The tire's internal structure includes twin steel belts with a two-ply nylon reinforcement to stabilize the tread, increasing traction and durability. The Endurance features a polyester cord body to help smooth out the trailer's ride, and a scuff guard is molded into the sidewall to further increase durability by resisting damage from contact with curbs during parking lot maneuvers."

Maybe that will provide a longer lasting tire. But, if it's not properly maintained it will just be another Marathon by another name.

Thanks CW. I'm of the mind that the higher ply rating equals a "stouter" tire IMO. Life is too short to get involved in complicated "stuff". BTW I love your contributions