Comparing Trailer Wheel and Tires in Size ST145/R12

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Question:

My Carry On 5x8 utility trailer came with 4.8x12 bias tires. It’s time to replace them and I’d like to upgrade to radial tires. It appears that ST145/R12 and 5.30R12 are both suitable replacements for my 5 on 4 1/2, 12”x4” rims. I looked at your tire/rim combos of AM31202 and but can't find one for the ST145/R12 size. Other than slight differences in load capacities E vs D are there additional performance differences to consider? Which of the two is better? I’m looking for the best all around performing tire regarding load, hwy speeds, wear, etc. Do you suggest other options? Thank you!

asked by: Roger

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range E # AM10140 and the Aluminum Lynx Trailer Wheel - 12" x 4" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2 - Silver # LH45FR is the wheel and tire that you want. There is very little difference between the two except for Load Range. I would choose the higher load range. These do not come mounted, so you can have them mounted at a local shop when they arrive.

expert reply by: Jameson C

1

Paul

4/30/2024

What is the difference between a ST145/70R12 Radial and a standard ST145/R12?

Jameson C.

5/1/2024

@Paul Those two sizes mentioned have a different aspect ratio. The ST145/12 is the same as the ST145/80-12 which I suspect is what you actually meant to type.

Paul

5/1/2024

@JamesonC no its the 70 I'm talking about. As I now understand it after research the 145R12 is just over an inch in diameter bigger then the ST145/70R12. Is that right

Jameson C.

5/1/2024

@Paul That sounds about right. It would be a very small difference in height.

Answer 1

Hey Tom! The Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire #AM10140 will fit as long as you have a 12" x 4" rim. Moving from B to E is a pretty big jump, and that is going to be a light trailer even with the motorcycle on it. I am a…

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Answer 2

For a tandem axle trailer rated for 7000 lbs, you can use either a Load Range C or D tire. Each axle will be rated for 3500 lbs so you need a tire that will carry 1/2 that capacity. That would make your minimum load range before limiting your system…

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Answer 3

Hi Brad; I would stick with the trailer manufacturer recommendation of Load Range C tires like the #AM3H390. Load Range E tires like #AM3H490 will be more durable since they're 10 ply instead of 6 ply. However, that might actually cause the…

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Answer 4

It may be possible to upgrade the 4.80-12 tires on your Karavan trailer. The main factor we need to consider is the clearance between the tire and the fender, as well as the clearance between the inside of the tire and the trailer frame. Our rule of…

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Answer 5

The Easy Grease Trailer Idler Hub Assembly for 2K Axles #AKIHUB-545-2-G-EZ-2K is compatible with standard 2,000 lb axles from most manufacturers. It looks like your Karavan probably uses a KNOTT axle and hub assembly so you will need to measure to…

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Answer 6

Since both a ST145/R12 size tire, like the Kenda Karrier S-Trail #AM10130, and a 5.30-12 size tire, like the Kenda K353 #AM10068, fit a 12 inch wheel, a ST145/R12 size tire can replace a 5.30-12 size tire. Keep in mind that these tires do have…

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Answer 7

Hello Mark, thanks for getting in touch. The 145/R12 tires and the 4.80-12 are similar but not exactly the same size. The 4.80-12 tires are 4.9" wide and 20.7" in diameter when fully inflated. The 145/R12 tires are going to be about…

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Answer 8

Hey Stewart, so I don't know what tire size you have/need but I attached a link on this page that has all of the 12 inch tires we offer that are radial for you to check out. Select your size on the filter part of the page and you'll see all…

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Answer 9

The difference between the two trailer sizes you referenced is that the 5.30-12 will be about 1-1/2 inches taller than the 4.80-12 and would have more capacity. As long as your trailer has the clearance for a slightly taller and wider tire a 5.30-12…

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Answer 10

Yes, the ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire #AM10130 will fit in place of your 4.80-12 #AM10062 tires. The reason you wheel is 13" across is on wheels the diameter is measured on the inner diameter of the bead seat area which is the smaller diameter…

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Answer 11

Yes, the Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire #AM10140 referenced in your question will fit the same 12 inch wheel with a 4 inch width that your existing 4.80-12 size tires are mounted to. Just note that the ST145/R12 tire will be…

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Answer 12

Increasing your load range could be a good thing or a bad thing depending on the situation. If your trailer isn't pushing the load capacity of your current tires, then I wouldn't worry too much about increasing the load range to prevent blow…

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Comparing Trailer Wheel and Tires in Size ST145/R12

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