Trailer Wheel and Tire Recommendation for Size 4.80-12 with Higher Speed Rating

Published 01/23/2019

Question:

Hello, I have a Load Rite boat trailer with 4.8/12 bias, 5-4.5 bolts, high speed ?, load range C tires. I was looking to upgrade to a radial tires as I have been told that the radial tires are better for highway service. I see some of your tires are rated for a max. speed of 65 mph, some 81 mph max. speed, and most with no speed rating. I will be driving some load distances 2000 miles on highways with speed limits of 70 mph. Would the 5.3/R12 tire provide better service ? Do you have a recommendation for this service ? Thanks

asked by: Michael S

Helpful Expert Reply:

Whenever available I always recommend going with trailer tires that are rated for higher than 65 mph. It's too easy to accidentally go faster than 65 on the highway even when pulling a trailer so it's always a good idea to have some cushion there.

So for your tire size of 4.8R12 I recommend the Taskmaster 4.80R12 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 12" White Spoke Wheel # TA98RR. This has the 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern you need as well as has a Load Range C tire that has an 81-mph speed rating. This is also a radial tire which in general is preferred over bias ply tires.

The main difference between a radial ply and a bias ply tire is how the tire is constructed. The cords inside a bias ply tire run at a 32-degree angle to the direction of travel, and the cords on a radial tire run at a 90-degree angle to the direction of travel, or across the tire from wheel lip to wheel lip.

A radial tire flexes more than a bias tire, giving it better ground contact, traction, stability, and tread wear.

A radial tire will normally run cooler than a bias ply tire, especially when the tire is under a load. A tire that runs cooler will last longer.

expert reply by: Jameson C