Replacement Wheels for a 2003 Coleman Utah Pop Up Trailer

Question:

I believe my bolt pattern is 5 x 4 1/2..when I measure the rim it seems to be 15 inches, but the tire is 185/80 D13, ..does that say its a 13 inch rim? do you have to replace with a 13 inch rim or can you go to 15 inch, will it decrease sway with a larger diameter? My old white steel rims are rusted and need to be replaced. Thank you

asked by: Jerome R

Expert Reply:

Replacing the rims with larger ones will not necessarily decrease sway. If you're looking to reduce sway you may be interested in the Reese Friction Sway Control Kit # 83660. For brackets you'll need either # RP26005 if you have 1-1/4 inch ball mount or # RP26003 if you have a 2 inch ball mount.

You currently have 13 inch rims. The reason your measuring is off is probably because you're measuring the overall diameter. A wheel is actually measured from where the bead of the tire comes into contact with the wheel.

You can possibly replace them with larger diameter rims if you'd like as long as there is enough clearance for the tire. If you went with the 15 inch rim you will obviously be adding 2 more inches to the overall diameter of the tire. However, that isn't all you'll be adding. The tire itself will be larger in diameter as well. When comparing the size of your current tires to the size of the smallest 15 inch tire we carry you will be adding about 4 inches in diameter. You need at least 4-1/2 inches of clearance between the tire tread and the inside of the fender to allow the trailer suspension to move freely over bumps while traveling.

The 15 inch tire is also going to be wider than the 13 inch. You also want to have roughly 2 inches of clearance between the tire wall and the inside of the wheel well. I recommend sticking with the 13 inch rims since that is the original size.

expert reply by: Charles S