Can Trailer Tires be Moved Further Away from the Trailer Frame

Published 09/03/2015

Question:

This 14inch wheel that have an offset. What is an offset wheel? My current wheel and tire on the trailer are very close to the inside frame. So I am looking for a wheel and tire to solve that problem. My tire size is ST205/75D14. Thanks

asked by: Ray L

Expert Reply:

A wheel with an offset has the mounting surface off center so that the tire will be either closer to the trailer or further away depending on if it is a negative or positive offset.

Positive offset means that the tire will be CLOSER to the trailer. Negative offset means that the tire will be FURTHER from the trailer.

It sounds like you want a negative offset to move the tires a little further away from the trailer. But if the current set up is not making contact with the frame then you do not have to use offset wheels. Be sure to keep trailer tires inflated to the maximum psi indicated on the tires.

For a negative offset we only have a 12 inch wheel # AM20149 and I would not recommend going from 14 inch down to a 12 inch because the capacity and size difference is not close enough.

expert reply by: Michael H