Can 4.80-12 and 145/80-12 Tires Use the Same Wheels

Updated 04/03/2021 | Published 04/02/2021

Products Featured in This Question

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

(7209)

$66.61

Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D

(561)

$85.17

Question:

Hi, Im thinking about replacing my bias ply boat trailer wheels and tires with radials. The current tire size is 4.80-12. I only see 145/80-12 tires in radials. Do you sell radials in 4.80-12? If not, I assume I would need to purchase 3 new wheel/tire sets as the old ones will not work for a spare? Will the 145/80s fit my old rims? Maybe I could buy 2 tires and one wheel/tire set. Are the radials that much better than the bias for highway driving? I have a 13foot Boston Whaler Sport. Thanks.

asked by: Sam L

Expert Reply:

Radial tires will provide you with a smoother highway ride, and will also run cooler which can lead to longer tire life, because excessive heat build-up is the number one cause of premature tire failure.

A 4.80-12 tire and a 145/80-12 tire are both designed for a 12x4 rim, so you will indeed be able to reuse your current rims. The 145/80-12 tires will be about 3/4 of an inch wider and 1/2 an inch taller. I wouldn't recommend reusing one of the old tires as a spare, unless it's a last-ditch emergency situation and you'll immediately proceed at moderate speed to the closest tire shop to get the bad tire fixed or replaced.

I'd recommend going with the 145/80-12 radial tire like the # AM10130 which has a 1220 lb per tire/2440 lb per axle capacity.

expert reply by: Mike L