Does Changing Tire and Wheel Size on a Camper Trailer Change How High or Low the Camper Sits

Updated 01/18/2017 | Published 01/17/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Karrier ST235/85R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range E

(2300)

$195.01

Provider 215/75R17.5 Radial Tire w/ 17-1/2" Silver Mod Wheel - Offset - 8 on 6-1/2 - LR H

(1131)

$439.50

Question:

I currently have 16inch wheels and tires on my camper, 8 hole with 6 1/2 inch bolt holes. If I we to 17 1/2 inch wheels and tires would that make my camper taller or shorter to the ground

asked by: Ken M

Helpful Expert Reply:

It can make your trailer sit higher or lower compared to what tire size you are currently using and what tire size you are changing to, but it won't be that big of a difference.

Whether or not the trailer sits higher or lower really just depends on what tire size you are looking at getting. If your current tire size is the same as the Kenda Karrier # AM10295 tire that you referenced, which is ST235/85R16, then your axles of your trailer should sit about 15.85 inches above the ground.

If you were to get the tire size 215/75R17.5, like the Taskmaster Provider # TA95ZR, then you would lose 3/4 of an inch in height.

In your case, this would lower your trailer. Even though the tire clearance inside your wheel well will slightly increase, it is worth mentioning that whenever you are looking to change a tire size that you make sure there is about 3 inches of clearance inside your wheel to account for the action in your suspension.

I have attached two helpful articles that talk about tire sizes for you as well.

expert reply by: Jon G