Can 16 Inch x 6 Inch Trailer Wheels be Replaced with 16 Inch x 5-1/2 Inch Trailer Wheels

Updated 12/18/2018 | Published 12/17/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Provider ST215/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range C

(1094)

$123.23

Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel - 14" x 6" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2 - Galvanized Finish

(723)

$59.69

Question:

The specification placard on my single axle boat trailer calls for a 14 x 6 inch, 5 on 4.5inch wheel. I want to replace the wheels and am finding a far greater array of 5.5inch wheels to choose from and am wondering if it is prudent to switch to a narrower wheel. Also, are trailer wheels weight rated? The placard says the trailer has a GCWR of 2,999 lbs. Thanks for your help.

asked by: Jim

Helpful Expert Reply:

There should not be any issues when switching from a 14" diameter x 6" wide wheel to a 14" diameter x 5-1/2" wide wheel on your boat trailer. The wheels do have a weight capacity rating but that does not mean the wider 6" wide wheel will have a higher capacity than a 5-1/2" wide wheel. They both vary right around 2,000 lbs per wheel so you should be just fine.

The only thing I recommend when choosing wheels for a boat trailer is that you get ones that are made of aluminum like part # LHSJ211G or have a specialized coating like part # AM20354 that prevent corrosion. The more corrosion resistant the wheels are, the least likely you are to experience leaks. I have attached a list of our 14" diameter wheels that are made of aluminum or have these specialized coatings for you.

expert reply by: Conner L