Adding Wider Tires to Small Sailboat Trailer For Better Performance on Sandy Beaches
Published 09/03/2015
Question:
Hello, I am looking to replace the 4.80-8 tires on my very small sailboat trailer with something much wider which will roll down a soft sandy beach better. Will this tire fit on my little trailer? Please see the photos. If not can you think of a better way to improve beach performance? I can change back to the small tires for any serious road runs, but most of the time only have to go a couple miles at 30mph to the beach. Thanks very much! Jamestown, Rhode Island
asked by: Tim P
Expert Reply:
Judging by the photo you provided, it looks like you only have about an inch to an inch and a half of clearance to the inside of your wheels, before you'd hit the u-bolt plate that secures the leaf springs to the axle. Going with a 5.70-8 inch tire would increase your tread width by about an inch, which would move the inside of the tire about 1/2 inch closer to the u-bolt plate. If you went any wider than that, you'd run the risk of the tires not clearing. The tires on the # AM3H320 wheel/tire combo are almost 9 inches wide, which would bring the inside of the tire 2+inches closer to the leaf spring, which wouldn't fit.
If you'd care to click on the provided link, you can see the tire and wheel/tire combo options we have in that tire size. You'll want to choose either a tire only, or a wheel/tire combo. If you choose a tire only, be sure that you choose the proper load rating. The weight of the trailer plus its cargo shouldn't exceed twice the tire's load rating. The 5.70-8 tire is compatible with a 8 x 3-3/4 wheel, like what's typically used on a 4.80-8 tire. If you choose a wheel/tire combo, be sure to choose the wheel the proper bolt pattern, 4 lugs on a 4 inch bolt circle or 5 lug on a 4-1/2 inch bolt circle.
I'll link you to some trailer tire FAQ articles. I hope you'll find them helpful.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Kenda 215/60-8 Bias Trailer Tire with 8" Galvanized Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Bias Ply Tire
- Load Range C
- 215/60-8
- 8 Inch
- K - 65 mph
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Galvanized
- Kenda
more information >
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