Recommendation for Smallest Tire to Create Lower Deck Height on 7 Ton Trailer  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

The best trailer tire for your setup is going to depend on the amount of axles that are on the trailer. This info is needed to ensure that the combined load capacity of all the tires will meet or exceed the 7 ton loaded weight of the trailer. For example a tandem axle setup would give you 4 tires so each tire by itself would need a load capacity of at least 3,500 pounds.

For this type of capacity you are going to need at least a 16 inch tire and wheel. The smallest 16 inch tire we have available with the needed capacity (if you have 2 axles) is with the Provider ST235/80R16 Load Range G # PRG80235 that features a maximum load of 4,080 pounds at 110 psi. This sized tire has an outer diameter/height of 30.8 inches.

I have attached a link that will take you to our selection of tire and wheel combos that use this particular tire.

It sounds like you are building this trailer so another option to create a low deck height is to use axles with a drop spindle. I recommend taking a look at the Timbren Axle-Less Suspension System # TASR7KS02. These systems are a great solution for home built trailers as they will fit any frame width and typically don't even require a thru axle. This specific model features 4 inch drop spindles to lower the trailer's height and a 7,000 pound capacity (giving you a total axle capacity of 14,000 pounds if using 2).

I have attached a dimensional diagram for this system as well that shows you where exactly the center of the hub will sit in relation to the trailer frame. I have included an installation video on this system that you can also check out.

expert reply by: Chris R

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