Should I Upgrade the Tires on my Fifth Wheel Trailer to a Higher Load Range/Size

Updated 01/19/2015 | Published 01/17/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Karrier ST225/75R15 Radial Tire with 15" White Spoke Wheel - 6 on 5-1/2" - Load Range E

(1508)

$218.36

Karrier ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range E

(2300)

$167.35

Karrier ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire with 16" White Wheel - 6 on 5-1/2 - Load Range E

(1563)

$299.47

Karrier ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 16" White Wheel - 8 on 6-1/2 - Load Range F

(1564)

$300.06

Question:

I would like to know if I can use the same rim and use 16inch tire instead of a 15? It is because I would like to use a rating F. Right now the trailer has ST225/75R15 tire with a rating D. The trailer is 29 ft. long. Thank you,

asked by: Ubaldo D

Expert Reply:

There is no way to use a tire designed to fit a 16 inch rim on a 15 inch rim. Your best option will be to determine the total weight of your trailer when it is loaded and ready to tow and then pick a wheel/tire combination that has enough capacity.

The part # AM10303 is the same size as what you have in a Load Range E and it has a 2,830 lbs at 80 psi. If that has enough capacity for your trailer then that would be all that you need. If you need more capacity you will need to upgrade to a 16 inch wheel and tire.

For a Load Range F wheel and tire you would want the part # AM35099 if you have an 8 on 6-1/2 inch bolt patter or a # AM32764 if you have a 6 on 5-1/2 inch bolt pattern.

If the 15 inch tire is more than enough capacity there would be no reason to go with a higher capacity as it would be pointless.

I attached an FAQ on trailer tires for you to check out as well.