Is it Okay to Have Different Size Tires on a Trailer
Updated 05/20/2025 | Published 10/18/2013
Question:
I currently have two different wheel types on my trailer. 1 wheel is a 4.80-12 the other tire is 5.30-12. Will this cause problems? Or can I just leave it like it is? Thx for the help.
asked by: James S
Expert Reply:
Having different size tires on your trailer can cause a couple of different issues. The first one being that they have different weight capacities. Your 4.8-12 ranges from 785 lbs at 60 psi to 990 lbs at 90 psi whereas your 5.3-12 ranges from 840 lbs at 55 psi to 1250 lbs at 105 psi.
An important point of consideration is when using two different size tires, the load has to be no more than the capacity of the lowest rated tire. With this substantial difference with both weight capacities and inflation levels, the chances of inadvertently overloading on the smaller side tire is quite possible. The other issues are the uneven wearing of the tires which can lead to greater wear of suspension components and the load being carried un-level. With these different possibilities, the end result is going to be a blown tire (at usually the most inopportune time) which can cause damage to your trailer and/or your load.
To avoid this situation pick one of the tire sizes and choose a matching tire. You should have a sticker on the tongue of your trailer that indicates what size tire should be used on your trailer.
I have attached a link to all 12 inch tires available in both radial and bias ply.
The Karrier ST175/80R13 Radial Tire # AM10210 that you referenced is actually a 13 inch tire and the tires in your question are 12 inch. If you have the room for a 13 inch, then, this one, with a load range rating of D is a good choice. Radial tires run cooler and are more flexible.
Right now, your 5.3-12 tire has an outside diameter of 21.9 inches and the 13 inch tire you referenced has a dimension of 24.4 inches. If you have fenders you will want to verify you have the room to hold the larger tire.
Before you choose what tire to put on your trailer, check your owners manual to see what the weight capacity of your trailer is so you have weight appropriate tires installed.
When picking the correct mating tire the load ranges and style (either bias or radial) need to match. By having the same tires on each side of your trailer they will wear equally and provide your trailer with a level ride for your load.
I have attached a FAQ article covering trailer tires.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Karrier ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire Only
- Radial Tire
- Load Range D
- 175/80-13
- 13 Inch
- M - 81 mph
- Kenda
more information >
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Byron
5/2/2020
I bought a cargo trailer with205 75 15 tires on one side and215 70 15 tires on the other.Now the different size tires talked about here are extreme.What about very slight differences