Tire/Wheel Combo to Replace 18.5 x 8.5-8 Tires on Snowmobile Trailer

Question:

I am looking to replace the tires on my snowmobile trailer. It currently has 18.5 x8.5-8 tires on it. The only tire and wheel assembly you have on your site is an 18x8.5-8. Is that extra 1/2 inch important? Also i was wondering if 165/65-8 would fit. They are a c load rating as opposed to a b for the others and are only a little more expensive per tire. Either load rating would work as it is only a 1, 000 lb trailer, but I was concerned about the size style of the 18x8.5-8. The 1/2inch difference and the fact that this tire was made for golf carts with a turf-friendly assembly. The trailer will primarily be used on the road so I would like a durable road tire. Please advise me on which tire would be more suitable for my trailer. Thank you.

asked by: Nichole B

Expert Reply:

The 18.5x8.5-8 is actually an old tire size that is not used much anymore. The closest metric size to your existing tire would be 215/60-8, which is what I would recommend. Your wheel most likely has a 5-on 4-1/4 inch bolt pattern (see link below), you will want to make sure that the bolt pattern of your existing wheels matches that of the replacement wheel.

We offer a 215/60-8 load range C, 935 lb capacity tire on a white painted rim as part # AM3H200. When inflated to its 50 psi maximum (which is recommended), the tire has a section or tread width of 8.9 inches and an overall diameter of 18.3 inches.

The 165/65-8 tire you mentioned would be narrower at 6.6 inches and smaller in diameter at 16-1/2 inches.

The # AM90002 wheel/tire combo you mentioned is primarily meant for use on golf carts, and I would not recommend it for your trailer.

I have linked you to some of our trailer tire FAQ articles that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L

Joe P.

5/27/2020

I have a 18.5x8.5-8 4 ply load range c, on a utility trailer, would i be better off with a 6 ply or an 8 ply if they make one in this size?It also says max air pressure 50psi, should i make sure tire is at 50 psi when using? Thanks Joe

Chris R.

5/31/2020

A higher ply rating will give you a more durable tire construction - so if the choice is available I'd definitely go with the 8 ply option. The closest alternative we have to your tire size is a 215/60-8 size like the 8-ply Kenda # AM3H325. You should ALWAYS inflate the tire to its maximum listed psi - 50 psi in your case on your existing tires or 70 psi for the Kenda tire I recommended.

John S.

5/31/2020

Would 18.5x8.5x8 for on 18x8.5x8 rims? What's the difference

Chris R.

6/4/2020

I've honestly not heard of an 18x8.5x8 size tire but I can't imagine it uses a different size rim that wouldn't be compatible with your 18.5x8.5x8 size units. Your existing tires would be just a bit wider.