Can I Use an Undersized Trailer Tire for Emergency Purposes

Updated 01/30/2017 | Published 01/29/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Karrier ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D

(2247)

$142.27

Loadstar ST175/80D13 Bias Trailer Tire with 13" White Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range B

(2719)

$123.56

Provider ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 13" Vesper Silver Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LRC

(510)

$139.23

Question:

I have 175/80-13inch on my 5x8 utility trailer single axle . Can i use a 4.80x12 wheel tire that i know will fit the hub correctly. This would only be used in an emergency to get me back home . thank you Larry

asked by: Larry

Expert Reply:

I recommend always keeping all of your trailer tires the same size. Not doing so can be dangerous even while driving short distances. As long as the smaller tire fits with your trailer's hub and spindle it will work in an emergency to get to the nearest stopping point, but I would not advise driving longer distances.

I instead recommend staying with a matching size 175/80-13 tire. For a tire of this size with a 4 on 4 inch bolt pattern you can use Loadstar # AM3S030. For a 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern, you can use Taskmaster # TA73RR.

expert reply by: Chris R