Should I Upgrade From a 10 inch Tire on Pontoon Boat Trailer

Published 01/07/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Kenda Loadstar 5.30-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C

(2828)

$98.33

Loadstar K399 Bias Trailer Tire - 205/65-10 - Load Range D

(3952)

$79.97

Question:

I own a 24ft pontoon boat and the trailer has tires on that are rated load range D, 205/65-10. They are high speed tires. Is it possible to put a larger tire on the trailer or should I get new ones that are the same size? The bolt pattern is 5 on 4 and 1/2. The center hole on the rim is 2 and 3/4inch Thank you for your advice.

asked by: Joseph G

Expert Reply:

I would recommend staying with the 10 inch tire, like the Loadstar K399 Bias Trailer Tire, # AM1HP54, for a couple of reasons. First, going with the larger, higher capacity tire will provide a stiffer ride for your trailer suspension and trailer. This will cause wear on the suspension parts.

Next, going with a higher capacity larger wheel and tire than recommended by the manufacturer or axle capacity makes the trailer suspension the weakest link in the system. If a failure occurs due to accidental overloading, a tire is much easier to replace than a spindle and bearings, a spring or other axle components.

Another possible problem would be clearance. You need to take into account the increased diameter of the tire and the increased width.

I have linked an article we put together with some other frequently asked tire questions that should also be helpful.

If you decide to go with a larger, higher capacity tire and wheel combination, just remember to be sure and stay within the trailer's axle capacities, but as long as the trailer is within the capacity of the original tire size, and the tire is rated properly for the trailer suspension, I see no real advantage to going with a larger tire.

expert reply by: Chris O