Availability of 15" Trailer Wheel with Backspacing of Less Than 3"

Updated 10/09/2019 | Published 10/08/2019

Question:

I purchased a used tandem axle trailer that has wheels with backspacing of approximately 3 5/8 inch. The problem is the wheels did not come with the trailer new. The previous owner installed 3 washers approximately 1/8 inch thick on each stud to prevent the tire from rubbing the inside of the fender. Is it possible to find a wheel with backspacing of less than 3 inches? Thanks

asked by: Jim H

Expert Reply:

All of the 15" trailer wheels we have available will have an backspacing of greater than 3 inches. This is because trailer wheels have either a zero offset or one that is very minimal, which allows the tires/wheels to stay evenly balanced under a trailer's weight.

We definitely don't recommend using spacers to give you the needed fender clearance so your best option is honestly going to be with a longer axle. It sounds like maybe the trailer was home built and wasn't designed perfectly to specs to allow for proper clearance with the tires.

We do have a nice selection of trailer axles available, which I have linked below. If you can tell me what capacity the existing unit is on the trailer, along with its hub face and spring seat length, I will be happy to make a specific recommendation.

expert reply by: Chris R