What Size Trailer Tire Spare Should be Used on Trailer with Tire Size 5.30-12

Updated 07/09/2019 | Published 07/08/2019

Products Featured in This Question

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

(7668)

$93.83

Kenda 5.30-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" Galvanized Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range C

(7532)

$92.38

Question:

I have a small boat trailer for a 12 ft aluminum fishing boat. the existing tires are 4.80-8 inch and not in great shape. I would like to go to5.30-12 inch tires assuming I have the clearance, is this an Ok idea ? Also, if I can go to the 12 inch tires, can I use one of the old 8 inch tires for a spare ?. I would only use the 8 inch spare to get me out of a jam but is it safe to have a 8 inch tire on one side and a 12 inch tire on the other side in a temporary situation to get home 100 mile max. ? tks,

asked by: Ron G

Helpful Expert Reply:

Since you have the clearance to go to the larger trailer wheel and tire size you certainly could. The overall diameter difference between the two sizes is large enough that you wouldn't want to plan on using them together on a trailer. I would not recommend the use of a 4.80-8 tire as a spare on a trailer that is using 5.30-12 sized tires as the diameter difference is almost 5 inches.

Best option is all the same size like the part # AM30790 which is a 5.30-12 trailer tire size mounted on a galvanized wheel that has a 4 on 4 inch bolt pattern.

expert reply by: Jameson C