Is there a Specific Amount of Clearance Required Between a Tire Sidewall and the Trailer Frame/Body

Updated 03/21/2016 | Published 03/18/2016

Question:

What is an acceptable distance for clearance between the back sidewall of the tire and the back of the fender? Will 1/2inch cause trouble?

asked by: Justin A

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you keep the trailer tires inflated to the maximum psi indicated on the tire sidewall then they should not bow out on the sides enough to cause any clearance problems between the tire and the trailer. A 1/2 inch space could be enough but it is situational. It might be enough on some trailers while others may need more space to prevent rubbing.

Going with a narrower wheel and/or skinnier tire could be all you need to have better clearance.

expert reply by: Michael H