Trailer Tire Size to Replace 8.75R16.5 Tires

Updated 07/30/2025 | Published 06/20/2018

Question:

I am looking into a trailer currently with 8.75R16.5 tires on it, I have 215/60R16 Tires that I am trying to find out will fit this truckbed trailer before I buy it. How do these compare?

asked by: Daniel C

Expert Reply:

A 16 inch tire will not fit on a 16.5 inch wheel. You would either need to get new 16 inch wheels with the proper bolt pattern to match what the hubs require or to get your existing wheels you would need to go with 16.5 inch tires.

You mentioned you have 215/60-16 tires which is not a trailer tire size. You should only use trailer tires on a trailer (they will have ST in front of the size). Trailer tires are built with a thicker sidewall compared to passenger vehicle tires. This is so trailer tires can handle more vertical load as opposed to vehicle tires which are designed for more lateral movement and comfort. Trailer tires should also be inflated to the max psi indicated on the tire or they can generate excessive heat because of the thicker sidewall.

The closest match to an 8.75-16.5 tire is an ST235/80-16. This size will be 9.25 inches wide (about 1/2 inch wider than what you have). It will also have an overall height of 30.79 inches (compare that to what you have now). Depending on the load range this size will have a capacity of 3,000 pounds at 65 psi up to 3,500 pounds at 90 psi and in some cases even higher.

I have included a link to our selection of ST235/80-16 tire and wheel combos for you.

expert reply by: Michael H