Are There Benefits To Using a 17 Inch Wheel on a Trailer Over a 16 Inch Wheel

Published 10/27/2015

Question:

Hi I currently will need to replace 4 tires I currently have 16 inch and am inquiring about any benefits of going to 17 inch- The current rims are 8 lug and are stamped 110 - Or is just to stay with e rated 16 which are currently on- we travel about 7K to 10K per year and pull close 16K pounds Velocity Raptor 36.5 feet

asked by: Pedro C

Expert Reply:

There is not a really a benefit to increasing from a 16 inch wheel to a 17 inch wheel. If you want to go with a larger wheel on your trailer, you first will want to make sure that there is room to accommodate the larger wheel. Most trailers are not designed to accommodate wheels larger than 16 inches.

Additionally, if you go with a 17 inch wheel for your trailer, you may find that tires are more expensive and harder to come by than tires for 16 inch wheels.

If you are wanting a tire with a larger weight capacity, you can go with a tire that has a higher load rating. Although, if there are triple axles on your trailer and with a Load Range E tire like the Kenda Karrier # AM10295, that you referenced, you should have more than enough weight capacity for your 16,000 pound trailer.

If your existing tires are size ST235/85R16, the Kenda Karrier # AM10295 is a great option for you. If you aren't replacing all of your trailer's tires, keep in mind that you should always use tires of the same size, load range, and construction on a trailer. If you use tires that don't match, you could experience problems of overloading and overheating, which can lead to tire failure.

expert reply by: Victoria B