Can 8 Inch Trailer Tires be Replaced with 12 Inch Trailer Tires

Updated 07/25/2018 | Published 07/24/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Kenda Loadstar K371 Bias Trailer Tire - 4.80/4.00-8 - Load Range B

(3612)

$25.73

Kenda 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range B

(7200)

$82.67

Kenda 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" Galvanized Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range B

(6834)

$91.32

Question:

Michael H. answered my question like this regarding my 8 inch tire replacement question on a lightly loaded trailer. I like that guy. Would it be an advantage to go to 12 inch tires over the 8 inch Kendas? Less revolutions = less heat/wear??? If so, do you sell 12 inch premounted 4 bolt pattern tires? Either way, I will be ordering tires from you. AM10002 at the moment Thank you so much

asked by: Jeff L

Expert Reply:

Hey, thanks. You're not so bad yourself!

Going to a larger tire size is possible but there are a few things to think about. Chief among these things is clearance. When going from an 8 inch tire to a 12 inch tire the diameter will increase by 4.4 inches. This means that if there is anything above the tire such as a fender the larger tire may not fit. Even if you have the clearance now you also have to account for the travel of the suspension.

The width between the two sizes is not a concern with a 4.80-12 tire.

The extra height will also make the trailer more susceptible to sway since it raises the center of gravity. A 12 inch tire will have fewer revolutions and last longer than an 8 inch tire.

With all that in mind if you decide to go to a 12 inch tire size I recommend tire and wheel combo # AM30540. This is a 4.80-12 tire on a white spoke wheel with 4 on 4 bolt pattern. It is rated for 785 pounds at 60 psi. There is also a galvanized version, # AM30550.

expert reply by: Michael H