How To Change To Smaller Wheel and Tires on Utility Trailer With 6-Lug 15 Inch Wheels

Updated 02/14/2012 | Published 02/12/2012

Question:

I have a homemade, small utility trailer 40w x 72L that was given to me. It has a 6 hole 15 wheel pattern and I want to it down to a smaller wheel size. The axle is 1 1/4. I have little clearance on each side of the trailer due to the 15 wheels. I only use the trailer for hauling a riding mower or a small 4x10 foot pond boat that weighs a bit over 100# to the lake I live on, never going further than about 15-20 miles from home. How can I change the wheel size without replacing the axle to about 12-13 or is it possible?

asked by: Brian R

Expert Reply:

If the hub on your trailer has a 6-lug bolt pattern, the smallest tire size that will fit is the 15 inch tire size. There are no wheels smaller than 15 inch with a 6-lug bolt pattern.

You will need to change out the hubs on the axle to a bolt pattern like the 5 on 4-1/2 inch size to be able to use a smaller wheel and tire. To change out the hubs we would need the inner and outer bearing part numbers and the seal part number from your existing hub to select a hub with a 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern. Also, let me know if you have brakes on the trailer or not and whether they are electric or hydraulic.

I am including a link to a FAQ page and a video link that will show you how to disassemble your hubs and get the part numbers off of the bearings and seal.

expert reply by: Jeff D