Can Larger Trailer Tires be Put on a Trailer with 4.80-12 Trailer Tires

Updated 07/23/2013 | Published 07/20/2013

Products Featured in This Question

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

(7892)

$103.52

Karrier ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire with 13" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D

(1589)

$150.89

Question:

I just purchased a small 5x8 used lowes utility trailer, i got to get new tires, i wanted to know if i can up size from a 480 12 5 on 4 1/2 wheel to a 13 or a 14inch wheell and whatever tire that works, thanks.

asked by: Nicholas B

Helpful Expert Reply:

You can potentially use new tires and wheels on your trailer as long as there is clearance all around the existing tires for the larger size. Going to a 13 inch like with # AM31985 you will need at least 1.8 inches clearance above the existing tires and 2.095 inches at the back between the trailer and tire for the wider size.

Trailer tire and wheel combo # AM31985 is a radial tire with steel wheel, 5 on 4-1/2 bolt pattern. It is a load range D rated for 1,610 pounds at 65 psi. Please note that going to a larger trailer tire does not increase the capacity of the trailer. The capacity is set by the axle.

expert reply by: Michael H