Comparing 4.80R12 vs ST175/80R13 for Boat Trailer
Updated 05/07/2019 | Published 05/06/2019
Question:
Hello, I am trying to decide between 4.80R12 TA98RR and ST175/80R13 TA43RR for my boat trailer. The entire trailer with boat weighs around 1000-1500 lbs loaded maximum, so both are well within the weight capacity. Price is close enough that it doesn't matter to me. I am also not concerned about fitment. I will be towing mostly on highway up on 1-3 hour trips. Is either of these better suited for my application? I want the tire that will tow the most comfortably, and have the least issues. My initial thoughts are that the taller tire is better, but would the wider tire cause more heat and resistance for my tow vehicle? I am also considering the taller tire because I have had potholes damage rims on 4.80 tires before. Thanks!
asked by: James
Expert Reply:
All things being equal it's almost always better to go with a larger trailer tire size when possible. You'll get a smoother ride quality on the trailer and since smaller wheels turn faster at the same speed as larger wheels you end up putting less stress on the hubs and wheels/tires as well. So I'd recommend the part # TA43RR which will work great.
The only thing that might make a slight difference to push you towards the part # TA98RR instead would is that since this is a boat trailer application the smaller tire would mean the trailer wouldn't have to be backed quite as far into the water.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Provider ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 13" Vesper White Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LRC
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Radial Tire
- Load Range C
- 175/80-13
- 13 Inch
- M - 81 mph
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Acrylic Enamel
- Taskmaster
more information >
Featured Help Information
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Search Results: bunk carpet
- Q&A: Recommended 4.80 x 12 Trailer Tires for Highway Driving
- Shop: Taskmaster 4.80R12 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 12" Vesper White Spoke Wheel - 4 on 4 - LR C
- Shop: Taskmaster 4.80R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range C
- Video: Trailer Spare Tire Mount by Dutton-Lainson Review
- Video: Complete Breakdown of the Loadstar ST175/80D13 Bias Trailer Tire with 13" Galvanized Wheel
- Shop: Trailer Spare Tire Mount by Dutton-Lainson
- Shop: CE Smith Spare Tire Mount - Locking - Steel - 4-Lug and 5-Lug Wheels - 8-3/4"
- Shop: Provider ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 13" Vesper Silver Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LRC
- Shop: Taskmaster 5.30R12 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 12" Vesper Silver Mod Wheel - 4 on 4 - LR C
- Shop: Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Q&A: Installation Time for Blue Ox BX1128 Flat Tow Base Plate Kit for 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Q&A: Which is Better for Highway Use 4.80-12 or 5.30-12 Trailer TIres
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Video: A Look at the Power Mountain Tallboy 6 Ton Off-Road Bottle Jack with a Military Cargo Trailer
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between Load Range C and D ST175/80D13 Trailer Tires
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Q&A: Best Suspension Upgrade for 33" Tandem Axles: Road Armor vs Dexter EZ Flex for Ember 22ETS
- Shop: Gooseneck Hitch
on Trailer Tires and Wheels
