What Is The Smallest Diameter Wheel That Can Be Used On a 10 Trailer Drum Brake Axle?

Published 01/14/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Steel Trailer Wheel - 10" x 6" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2 - White

(726)

$49.25

Dexter Trailer Hub & Drum Assembly for 3,500-lb Axles - 10" Diameter - 5 on 4-1/2 - Pre-Greased

(1076)

$171.79

Dexstar Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel - 12" x 4" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2 - White Powder Coat

(2455)

$40.65

Dexstar Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel - 13" x 4-1/2" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2 - White Powder Coat

(2455)

$47.96

Question:

I know a 12inch 5 on 4.5 fits over my 10inch trailer hub, my questions is, will a 10inch 5 on 4.5 fit over the 10inch hub? The attached picture is the 12inch wheel on the hub.

asked by: Brian G

Expert Reply:

You will not be able to fit a 10" Steel Trailer Wheel # AM20046 on a 10" Trailer Hub and Drum Assembly # 84546UC3-EZ.

When a hub is measured the diameter is measured to the inner braking surface(See image).

Wheels are measured to the bead seat area for the tire lip(See Image).

Generally a 13" is the smallest you will see recommended as if you are using aluminum wheels which are thicker they may contact the drum. Also since there are several manufacturers of wheels and they are usually not the same ones that are making the hub you can see tolerances that will not allow all 12" wheels like the Dexstar Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel # AM20132 you have to always fit a 10" brake hub. I do recommend verifying that you have clearance(at least 1/4") between the drum and wheel as if the wheel were touching anywhere besides the mounting flange, this may create an issue when the different parts heat and cool. Since steel likes to expand as it gets hot there may be fit issues that you do not always see.

The 13" Dexstar Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel # AM20232 may be the best choice if you do not have the needed clearance.