How do I Determine What Size Tire I can Use on a Harbor Freight Trailer?

Published 09/21/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Taskmaster 5.30R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range C

(308)

$125.94

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

(7921)

$119.79

Question:

I have a harbor fright 1720 lb. trailer and I am building a camper with it. I want to get more clearance for the trailer. Whats the biggest rim and tire I can fit on the trailer? thats highway rated

asked by: Charlie G

Expert Reply:

Choosing an upgraded tire and wheel will depend on two measurements. First will be the clearance from the top of the tire to the bottom of the fender/wheel well. You will need to make sure you have at least 3 inches so when you hit a bump or something the tire is not rubbing against anything.

The other measurement can be plus or minus a little, but you will need to make sure you have around 1-1/2 inches from the inner sidewall of the tire to the closest edge of the fender/wheel well. Again, there is some wiggle room with this one so it does not have to be as exact as the previous measurement.

These trailers typically come with something similar to the Kenda 5.30-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D # AM30859 which will have a diameter of just under 22 inches. So with all that being said, if you have not designed or built the area around the wheels, you may want to hold off until you decide which tires you decide to go with. This will allow you to work around them and keep the needed clearance to keep anything from hitting each other.

expert reply by: Lazer S