Choosing Between Galvanized Trailer Wheels and Aluminum Trailer Wheels for a Boat Trailer

Published 09/26/2013

Products Featured in This Question

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

(2433)

$169.07

Loadstar ST175/80D13 Bias Trailer Tire with 13" Aluminum Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D

(302)

$177.82

Question:

Thinking of ordering the Karrier ST17580R13 on the 5 on 4.5 galvanized rims. I have seen some complaints on the quality/consistacy of the galvanizing. Has anything been done to rectify this or shoud I be concerned. Going on my boat trailer.

asked by: Tim

Expert Reply:

In the galvanizing process, depending on how the manufacturer dries the wheels some of it can pool on one side due to the dipping processed used. That is an issue you are going to run into with many wheel manufacturers. It is an ongoing issue.

What I recommend is to go with an aluminum wheel and tire combo like # AM32001HWTB or # AM31245. You pay a little more, but you still get excellent corrosion resistance, style, and none of the issues associated with galvanized wheels.

expert reply by: Michael H