Changing Trailer Tires and Wheels from 4.80-8 to 4.80-12

Published 08/30/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Kenda 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C

(7697)

$91.79

CE Smith Spare Tire Mount for Trailers - Steel - 4- and 5-Lug Wheels - 8-3/8" Long

(1207)

$17.78

Question:

I would like to upgrade my current trailer tire 4.80-8 to 12. Bolt patter on the trailer is 5 on 4 1/2. With the current tires, I have about 3 1/2inch clearance from top of the tire to the inner fender well. Will item # AM30660 works? What is the maximum speed limit that I can drive on this wheel?

asked by: Willie L

Expert Reply:

Yes, you can use the Kenda 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tires, # AM30660 you mentioned, as long as you are able to raise the fenders on your trailer. With the trailer fully loaded to capacity, you need to maintain at least 3" of clearance from the top of the tire to the underside of the fender top for normal suspension travel. The diameter of the # AM30660 tire & wheel combo is 4.6" larger than your current 4.40-8 tire and wheel combo. So, you will need to move your fenders before you can mount your new tires. Since you need to keep a minimum of 3", you will need to move your fenders up approximately 4-1/2".

It's always a good idea to make sure that your new tire will not rub the trailer frame on the inside or extend past the fenders on the outside. Since your new tires will only be 1/4" wider, you should still have plenty of clearance

Don't forget to replace your spare tire while you are at it. We offer an inexpensive Spare Tire Carrier for Trailers, # CE22007Z-11050-2 that works with 4 and 5-lug wheels. These Kenda trailer tires are rated at a maximum speed of 65 miles per hour.

expert reply by: Amy W