Compatibility of Larger Hub-Centric Wheels on 17-Foot Boat Trailer

Updated 05/26/2015 | Published 05/22/2015

Question:

I have a 1988 17foot Boat trailer that has hub-centric hubs with coned wheel bolts. The bore hole in my wheels are larger than the center section of my hub. Is this going to be an issue?

asked by: James S

Expert Reply:

With a hub-centric wheel the trailer load is intended to be carried by the wheel based on its pilot hole matching the hub size. If the pilot hole is larger than the hub then the trailer weight load will not be held by the wheel itself but by the coned wheel bolts which is NOT recommended. The bolts are designed to hold the wheel to the hub but not to bear the actual weight load from the trailer. In this circumstance you may find that your wheel bolts are shearing off when under load.

You will want to find wheels that have the correct pilot hole diameter to match your hubs. This will ensure proper weight transfer to the wheels' hubs without stressing the wheel bolts.

You can use the linked page to select wheels or wheel/tire combinations in your required bolt pattern. In each item's product specs you will find the pilot hole diameter. For example, part # AM30620 is tire/wheel rated at 990-lbs at 90-psi pressure; this wheel has a 2.84-inch pilot hole diameter.

expert reply by: Adam R