Trailer Axle Flip to Accommodate Larger Off Road Wheels and Tires

Updated 03/24/2021 | Published 03/10/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(835)

$80.12

Timbren Axle-Less Trailer Suspension - Heavy Duty - Long Spindle - 4" Lift - 5 Bolt - 3.5K

(166)

$1305.78

Question:

How do I measure the maximum tire size I can buy for my camper once I raise it? And what is the best tire with a 4 bolt pattern for long distance travel as well as some gravel roads.

asked by: Deb

Expert Reply:

The first place I would start is by figuring out how much room you currently have for any larger wheels and tires. We do have an article that I included below on raising your trailer by flipping the axle. This may help you accomplish what you are looking to do. If this is what you are looking to do a Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit # K71-384-00 may be what you need depending on your current axle. It is for 2-3/8" diameter axles and works with double-eye leaf springs only. I only recommend replacing the axle for larger if it is damaged or it does not meet the weight rating of the current trailer. A larger axle won't increase the weight capacity of your pop up.

If you decide you're defiantly going to replace the axle Timbren Heavy-Duty Axle-Less Trailer Suspension # ASR35HDS02 is a great option to look into. You will not have the traditional low hanging axle that sits low. They are a universal fit and will work with many different trailers. You can see the illustration for measurements below to help you decide if these are the right fit for you.

Once you have that figured out than we can start looking at what size wheel and tires combinations may work for you. Just remember that you will want to ensure that you have adequate spacing for the sidewalls of the tire to frame and fenders usually 1" minimum. Also depending on how much you raise the height it could effect the steps you have on the camper and hitch you use for towing.

expert reply by: Bud M

Timbren Axle-Less Suspension with 4" Lift Spindle Dimensions
(click to enlarge)

Deb

1/1/0001

How do I measure the maximum tire size I can buy for my camper once I raise it? And what is the best tire with a 4 bolt pattern for long distance travel as well as some gravel roads.

Gregory M.

3/24/2021

Start with your current tire mounted when you have the axle flip kit installed. You will want to measure how much additional clearance you have to the fender all the way around the wheel. This is best done with the trailer suspension loaded with weight to show ride height. You will also want to check your sidewall clearance as you may be able to fit a larger width tire as well. I assume that you have a wheel bolt pattern of 4 on 4". You can verify this using the article below. You may need to get larger wheels for a larger tire as you can fit from an 8"-13" diameter wheel. On the highest end of the range the ST185/80R13 # LHCK105 measures in at 24.64" diameter and 7.24" wide. You can compare that with your current tire size as well as measure from the center of the hub out 12.32". You will want to make sure you have at least 1-2" of clearance with the trailer loaded with weight to ensure proper clearance. For the width it is best measured off your current tire. If you have a 6" wide tire this size would add roughly 5/8" to each side so ensure you still have 1" clearance on your sidewall.