Recommendation to Replace 155R13 Tires on Boat Trailer

Published 10/18/2019

Question:

I have a 155 R 13 78T tire on my boat trailer. I cant find that size tire anywhere. The rim is 4 1/2 jx13 5 lug. I would like to keep a steel belted radial on the trailer. Its carrying a 1986 bass boat with a 48 horse power motor. A lighter weight boat. Any Suggestions.

asked by: Wayne

Helpful Expert Reply:

The 155Rx13 tire is an older size that's not used much at all anymore, which is why you're having so much trouble finding an exact replacement. Because of this your best option is to replace the tires with the closest current/modern trailer tire size available, which is a 175/80R13 model.

A 175/80R13 trailer tire has an overall diameter/height of 24 inches and a width of 6.9 inches. This is about 1.2" taller and 0.8" wider than what you currently have. As long as you aren't already cutting it super close with tire-to-fender clearance the slightly larger size won't be an issue.

I specifically recommend the Kenda Karrier # AM31994, which comes mounted to a galvanized steel wheel for excellent corrosion resistance (great for your boat trailer) with a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern. The tire itself has a maximum load of 1,610 pounds at 65 psi and a maximum speed of 81 mph.

Please just note that when changing the tire size you will need to replace both tires on the trailer with this. I have attached a short video review that you can check out as well.

expert reply by: Chris R