Installing Larger Tires on Boat Trailer with 4.80-8 Tires

Updated 04/26/2019 | Published 04/24/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Kenda 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range C

(7487)

$91.09

Kenda 215/60-8 Bias Trailer Tire with 8" White Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range C

(7487)

$81.99

Question:

I want a bigger tire so I can haul my boat farther and also raise it up. Thinking of maybe a 12 or 13 inch tire. I have the fender clearance. Jon boat less than maybe 400 pounds. Yes I know the boat doesnt fit the trailer very well but It is a work in progress. Will be making tongue longer to move boat forward. boat trailer tires 4.80 - 8 , 4 on 4.

asked by: Karla R

Helpful Expert Reply:

You can use larger 4-on-4 wheels/tires on your boat trailer as long as you keep about 2-1/2-inches clearance above the tires to allow for normal suspension travel. Your 4.80-8 tires are 16-inches in diameter and the nearest larger size on a 4-on-4 wheel is 215/60-8 part # AM3H290 which is 18.3-inches in diameter. This tire will reduce you fender clearance by about an inch.

If you refer to the linked article on tire sizes you'll be able to see the various sizes and their load ratings and diameters. If you want an even larger tire and you do not mind re-positioning your fenders for more tire clearance you can go to an even larger size such as 4.80-12 like # AM30620. This tire's diameter is 20-1/2-inches.

expert reply by: Adam R