Is a 215/75-14 Trailer Tire Taller than a 205/75-15 Trailer Tire

Updated 04/11/2016 | Published 04/07/2016

Question:

Would a 215.75.14 have a slightly larger circumference than a 205.75.14 in this same manufacturer?..... I am looking to get a bit more height while staying with a 14 inch rim. Reason being, my driveway is sloped and the rear V portion of the boat trailer frame scrapes the concrete. see photo I dont need much overall height difference but any amount is welcomed. Maybe a bias ply will stand a bit taller and not bulge out so much where the tread meets the pavement?... Current tire is a 205.75.14 radial I really dont want to add the expense of buying 15 inch wheels if at all possible.

asked by: Dale C

Expert Reply:

I think you might be talking about diameter but yes, a 215/75-14 trailer tire will have a slightly larger circumference than a 205/75-14 tire. Specifically, the 205 will have a circumference of about 82.582 inches whereas the 2015 will have a circumference of about 83.838 inches.

The diameter of the 205 is 26.3 inches and for the 215 the diameter is 26.7 inches. That is 0.4 inches of difference meaning that it would raise the height of the trailer by 0.2 inches.

Trailer tires should always be inflated to the maximum psi indicated on the tire. This will not only help with the height but also help to prevent over heating which is why many trailer tires fail. A bias ply tire will have a stiffer sidewall in general but either construction type, bias or radial, will work well if you keep them inflated to the maximum psi.

Another option for additional height is to has taller suspension hangers (if the trailer uses leaf spring suspension). I have included a link to the hangers we carry.

expert reply by: Michael H