Replacing a ST155/80R13 Tire on a Trailer with Very Little Fender/Tire Clearance

Updated 10/27/2020 | Published 10/21/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Kenda 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C

(7486)

$82.29

Kenda 5.30-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" Galvanized Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C

(7214)

$86.85

Loadstar ST175/80D13 Bias Trailer Tire with 13" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C

(2701)

$128.24

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(779)

$72.79

Question:

ST 155 80R 13 is no longer available. The 175 does not fit in the fender of my 1999 Shorelander Trailer. Do I need to to the 530 12inch ? Both would be Load range C. Other options?

asked by: Rick K

Expert Reply:

The 155/80R13 tires aren't around much anymore and are increasingly hard to find. The closest match is in fact the 175/80D13.

They are 1.2 inches wider in diameter, meaning they are only 0.6 inches closer to the frame (half of 1.2). If these are making contact with the frame (you should have at least 3 inches of clearance), then there are some things you can do to improve those clearance issues.

One thing you can do is to use a lift kit, especially an over-under lift kit like the Dexter Over-Under Kit, part # K71-384-00. Lift kits are specifically designed to give more clearance to your trailer, ensuring that your tires aren't hitting your fenders. I've linked to a list of lift kits for you to look through.

Another thing you can do is install longer hangers for your springs. These can give a little more clearance as well. I've linked to a list of these as well.

As for the tire and wheel, the closest 175/80D13 combo to the combo you referenced is the Kenda Loadstar, part # AM3S140. It's a bias tire that has a load range of C, a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern, and a 13" white wheel. I've linked to a video review of this tire and wheel for your consideration.

Finally, with regards to the 5.30-12 tires, these are not a good option. They only fit 12" wheels, and you should always stick with the same size wheels that the manufacturers had installed. These are 21.5" in diameter, so they can work better for your clearance issue, but again I don't recommend it. If, however, you decide to take this route, a wheel and tire combination for this is # AM30850. Just remember that you will need all of your tires and wheels to be replaced to this one to keep everything balanced.