Is it Acceptable to Decrease Tire Size on 2000 Rockwood Pop Up

Updated 06/27/2015 | Published 06/25/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D

(566)

$92.26

Kenda K353 Bias Trailer Tire - 4.80-12 - Load Range B

(3802)

$48.16

Kenda K353 Bias Trailer Tire - 4.80-12 - Load Range C

(3802)

$48.82

Question:

2000 Rockwood Pop Up-Can I use a 4.8-12 tire to replace the stock 5.3-12 tires?

asked by: Tara B

Expert Reply:

Since you're going down in tire size (about 1-1/2 inch smaller in diameter and 3/4 of an inch narrower), you should be fine going with a smaller tire size. However, the smaller tire might have a lower weight rating. Going with the smaller tire will decrease your ground clearance by about 3/4 of an inch.

You'll want to choose tires whose load rating equals or exceeds the weight of the pop-up. The camper should have a plate on the frame somewhere listing the GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) which is the maximum that the trailer can weigh. Be sure the tires you choose have a capacity that meets or exceeds the GVWR.

We offer a Kenda 4.80-12 tire in load range B, part # AM10060 which has a 785 lb weight rating when properly inflated to its maximum pressure of 60 psi (1570 lbs per axle). There's also a load range C available, part # AM10062 with a 990 lb weight rating when properly inflated to its 90 psi max pressure (1980 lbs per axle).

I'll link you to our trailer tire FAQ article, which I hope you'll find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L