Upgrading Tire Size on a Harbor Freight Trailer

Updated 05/29/2020 | Published 01/29/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Westlake ST205/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 15" Silver Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D

(746)

$198.68

Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2K Axles - 13" to 15" Wheels - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased

(1442)

$43.02

Easy Grease Trailer Idler Hub for 2K Axles - 13" to 15" Wheels - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased

(1006)

$72.16

Replacement Trailer Hub Bearing - L44643

(2074)

$3.50

Replacement Trailer Hub Bearing - L44649

(2074)

$14.16

Question:

I have a 1,000 lb harbor frieght trailer. . It has 4 hole 12 inch wheels. Its a 4 x 5 heavy duty model.the differential/spindle is welded to frame.it Wil be impossible for me to remove the hubs without cutting the edge of differential housing. To get into the hubs. My question is how safe will be to use adapter/spacers on the existing differential.on this trailer. I want to put bigger tires. I was thinking size P275/R15. Due to I have a truck with same size tires. You company carriers any adapter/spacers.? Thanks

asked by: Moises S

Expert Reply:

I do have a solution for you, but we do not recommend using vehicle tires on a trailer. Trailer tires are built with stronger sidewalls to help resist the load that is put on them, while vehicle tires are made for a more smooth ride. Also, we do not carry spacers that are intended to make your tire and wheel stick out so that it can clear your trailer frame.

To find out if you can upgrade your tires and wheels with your current setup, you can take the outer diameter and section width of the Westlake # LHAW121 and compare it to the wheel well of your trailer. The diameter of the Endurance is 27-1/8 inches, and the width is 8 inches. If this will fit on your trailer, then all you will need to do is replace your hub assemblies.

The hub on your trailer should not be welded to the spindle so if you get the hub off, it does require quite a bit of effort, you can find your bearing numbers and I can help you determine what replacement hubs that you will need. If your bearing number is # L44649 then you will want to get the Idler Hub Assembly, part # AKIHUB-545-2-LFEZ-2K. If your bearing number is # L44643 then you will want the Idler Hub Assembly, part # AKIHUB-545-2-LF-1K. Check out the helpful link I attached if you are unsure of how to remove your hub and bearings. Either of these hubs will work with the tire that I mentioned above.

If you can't find the bearing numbers, you can measure your spindle, using the photo that I attached, and let me know what those measurements are so I can find out which hub assembly is the proper replacement for you.

I have also attached some demonstration videos for you.

expert reply by: Jon G

click to enlarge

Thomas C.

5/26/2020

I have a 1720 lb HF trailer and want change the tires from 12 in. To 13 in. Do i need to change axle or hubs to do this, and do you carry 13 in. Tires and wheels. Thanks

Chris R.

5/29/2020

As long as you have the needed wheel well/fender and frame clearance for larger tires, you should be able to make this upgrade without a problem. We have large selection of 13" tires and wheels - I've linked them all below.

Helpful Links

dept-pg-trailer_tires_and_wheels-pc-13_inch.aspx