Recommended Tires for M101 Trailer Conversion to Camper

Published 12/04/2018

Question:

Bigger wheels on military style trailer to be converted to a camper I have 16 in 6 lug 3 in apart and was given a set of Toyota tundra wheels that match the lugs on my trailer but the truck wheels are 16x8 6 lug . Can I use them on my trailer safely ? and what size and type of tires should I get if I can use the bigger wheels ? I was hoping to fit tires to match my SUV tires cooper discoverers AT3 225 /65 R16 . is that even recommended for towing a trailer like mine ? will they support the weight AND help getting the best fuel efficiency for towing up to a max of 4k lbs ? The trailer will be converted to a camper Vardo gypsey style micro camper and will be made of wood. The trailer is an m101 style and has 6 x 8 frame . Im using mostly recycled or free materials and buying as little as possible but tires are essential and I dont want to cut corners on safety so if theres a way to make these wheels work that would be awesome but if not recommended I will figure out how to get the right ones so your advice is essential to my project. thanks

asked by: Jenai H

Expert Reply:

I don't recommend using the Toyota Tundra wheels on your trailer. Trailer tires and wheels are made differently than passenger vehicle wheels. Passenger wheels normally have an offset so the wheels sit farther under the vehicle where as trailer wheels have a zero offset. Passenger tires are also more flexible in the sidewall to account for turning and a softer ride, where trailer tires have an especially firm sidewall to help the trailer ride as intended. I appreciate your desire to be safe on the road and hope that is helpful. I've attached an article to help further as well.

For your trailer, I recommend the Provider ST235/80R16 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range E # TTWTRTM2358016E which are slightly larger than your SUV tires, but are the smallest we offer to fit your current 16 inch trailer wheels. These tires are designed to be filled to 80 psi cold and will be able to more than handle your desired weights with a capacity of 3,520 lbs each and a max speed of 81 mph.

The M101 style trailers are extremely strong and durable able to handle far more than the 4,000 lbs you are referencing, but more weight will decrease your fuel economy.

expert reply by: Jason S