Trailer Tire and Wheel Recommendation for a 13 Inch Tire for Small Trailer Carrying a Sailboat

Updated 06/28/2010 | Published 06/25/2010

Products Featured in This Question

Loadstar ST175/80D13 Bias Trailer Tire with 13" Galvanized Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C

(7549)

$124.87

Karrier ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire with 13" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D

(1574)

$149.75

Question:

Replacing 2 13 5 on 4.5, B78 wheel/tires on a 600lb trailer that carries a 1200lb sailboat one axle. Have read many reviews expressing concern about carlisle and goodyear trailer tires. Please recommend a superior alternative brand.

asked by: Matt M

Expert Reply:

A lot of times what happens with trailer tires is that the trailer is not used often so the tires sit and can get dry rot. Then, when they are used, they might blow out or wear quickly and people might think it is the construction of the tire or the brand that is no good when in reality the tires were not properly maintained.

Another issue is that sometimes people use vehicle tires not rated for the capacities typically handled by trailers instead of trailer tires. This can cause the tire to blow out or perform poorly simply because they are not intended for that application.

With that said, I recommend going with a radial tire over a bias tire. The 13 inch, 5 on 4-1/4 tires and wheels we carry are made by Americana and feature double steel belts and nylon plies for a longer life. These tires are specifically designed for trailer use. I recommend the Karrier ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire, # AM31985. This tire has a ply rating of 8 and is rated for 1,610 pounds at 65 psi and has a D load range. We have not yet had any complaints regarding these tires.

expert reply by: Michael H