Determining the Correct Wheels for a Trailer

Updated 05/12/2015 | Published 05/10/2015

Question:

I asked a previous question about rims for a stock trailer. In you me answer you brought up a couple of points that made me develop more questions. The rims that came off the trailer do not attach with lug nuts, they attach with bolts. The rim also fits snug in the center. The pilot hole of the previous rims is approx 3 9/16 inches. What do you suggest for replacement? Do I need to get rims that fit that snug around the hub?

asked by: Matt

Expert Reply:

In order to obtain the correct wheel replacement you will need to know your bolt pattern and tire size you prefer. Your pilot hole measurement of 3-9/16 inches you referenced is a good start and I included a link to all the wheels we currently offer.

If your wheels are hub-centric, you would want new wheels with the same pilot hole diameter as your current wheels because the wheels must center on the hub bore. If the pilot hole is larger, then the wheel will not stay centered on the hub and could move. If the pilot hole is smaller, the wheel may not fit on the hub at all.

The closest I found was the Dexstar steel wheel # AM20514 and it has a 3.65 inch pilot diameter and at this time we don't have a wheel with a pilot hole of 3-9/16. I would measure with a digital caliper instead of a standard ruler or tape measure to gain an exact measurement. We certainly want you to get the right wheel.

I included a link to all the tires and wheels we currently offer and you can break it down to the left of the page once you determine your bolt pattern.

expert reply by: Chris B