Recommendation to Upgrading 4.80 x 8 Trailer Tires to Larger Size for Highway Use

Updated 04/18/2020 | Published 05/06/2018

Question:

Hi, I have a Karavan bunk trailer with 4.80 x 8B and 5 x 4.5 bolt pattern wheels the sticker on the trailer show an option of 4.80x12B. I dont really know what those dimensions mean but the tire diameter is 15. I believe trailer could handle up to 19inch diameter tire based on the fenders space. The load weight is never going to be an issue since we only have kayaks and bikes on the trailer but simple wanted bigger wheels and tires for longer highway miles. Thank you

asked by: Brian F

Helpful Expert Reply:

A 4.80-12 size trailer tire will have an overall diameter of right around 20-1/2 inches, compared to the overall 16-inch diameter on your existing 4.80 x 8 units. Based on the 19-inch maximum you mentioned in your question, it might not be possible to upgrade to this size on your Karavan trailer. You can take a couple quick measurements on your trailer just to be sure. Also note that the larger tire will have a 4.84-inch width, which is important in terms of clearance with the trailer frame.

If you find that upgrading to this size is possible, I recommend looking at the Taskmaster 4.80R12 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 12 Inch Wheel # TA98RR. This radial ply tire (which will perform much better on the highway when compared to your existing bias ply tires), features a 990-pound
maximum load at 90 psi. The corrosion resistant steel wheel has the 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern you are needing, and the tire also has an excellent speed rating of 81 mph. With this tire and wheel combo, you also receive 2 years of complimentary roadside assistance, meaning you can call the helpline if you have a flat (24 hours a day, 7 days a week), and a technician will come change out the flat tire.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this product that you can take a look at. I have also attached a couple great articles on trailer tires and wheels that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R

Bob

4/17/2020

I have a Harbor Freight fold up trailer with 4.80-8 sized tires. The hubs/rims are the 4 bolt pattern. I want to go up to 4.80-12. Will your rims/tires fit this sized trailer?

Chris R.

4/18/2020

This will really depend on how much existing clearance you have to work with between the top of the tires and the fenders on your Harbor Freight trailer. Going from a 4.80-8 to a 4.80-12 like # AM30630 will give you a larger height/diameter by about 4.6" (half of which will affect your fender clearance). We recommend having at least 4" to 5" of fender clearance to allow for suspension travel. If you're able to maintain this with the new tires then the switch can be done without issue.

Helpful Links

dept-pg-trailer_tires_and_wheels-gw-4.80~12.aspx