Can Trailer With 12 Inch Tires Upgrade to 13 Inch Tires

Published 12/13/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Taskmaster 4.80R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range C

(286)

$97.51

Karrier ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 13" White Modular Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C

(2783)

$132.06

Question:

I have a 5×8carry on utility trailer with 12 inch tires on it can I upgrade to a bigger size tire??Thanks

asked by: Baron S

Expert Reply:

You can upgrade to larger tires but you will need larger wheels and also ensure you have the right amount of clearance. With trailer tires, the general rule of thumb is you want at least 3" of clearance from the top of the tire to your fender and at least 1" of clearance between the inside of the tire and your trailer's frame rail.

For example, the Karrier ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 13" White Modular Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C # AM31957 measures 24.1" in diameter and 7" wide when the tire is inflated. It also has a maximum 1,360 lb capacity and 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern. If you aren't sure what bolt pattern you have, you can refer to the linked help article on how to determine this pattern or use the handy bolt pattern template I've also linked.

Otherwise, you can also just replace your tires with new, higher-quality 12" tires, and my recommendation for that would be the Taskmaster 4.80R12 Radial Trailer Tire # TT48012C, which fits 12" x 4" trailer wheels. I've added links to video reviews as well as links to our selection of 12" tires and 13" tire and wheel combos for you.

expert reply by: Kyle S