Recommended Replacement Tire For Small Utility Trailer

Question:

Hello, I recently had a small trailer modified with a boat rack welded on it and possibly to carry my atv as well. However, I would be travelling down dirt roads and possibly trails as well as highways. The current tires on the trailer are 5.70-8, 4 bolt pattern. I think they are a little small for load and conditions I will be using them for and I would like to get something bigger and stronger. I understand truck and car tires, but am new to the trailer tire lingo. Im wondering if you could help me decide on a new tire size that would fit my use and conditions. Currently there is only a few inches between the tire and the fender which I might be able to remove, so Im sure that wont help me upgrade. Thanks for your help.

asked by: Jon K

Expert Reply:

You will want to make sure you do not exceed the weight capacity of the trailer. Upgrading tires or wheels will not allow you to carry more weight than what the trailer is designed to handle.

With that being said you can upgrade the tires and/or wheels provided you have enough room with your fenders or perhaps by replacing the fenders on the trailer. You also need to make sure you have the clearance between the tire and the trailer. You want at least 3 inches clearance between the top of the tire and the fender to allow deflection.

You may find you can upgrade the tires and be just fine. I recommend a tire like the Kenda K353 Bias Trailer Tire, part # AM10013. This is a load range D tire that has a capacity of 1,075 lbs at 100 psi. The outer diameter of this tire is 18.0 inches when inflated. The width of this tire is 5.8 inches.

For a new tire/wheel combo, the # AM30153 would work for you as it is a 5.70-8 tire on a steel wheel that has a 4 on 4 bolt pattern.

If you decide to go with a larger wheel/tire combo you will need to make certain you have the clearance. A combo like part # AM3H460 is a 205/65-10 tire that has a load range E rating and has a capacity of 1,650 lbs at 90 psi. When inflated this tire has a diameter of 20.4 inches and a width of 8.4 inches.