Can Boat Trailer Upgrade From 205/75R15 to 225/75R15 Tires

Updated 08/01/2022 | Published 07/30/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Aluminum Sendel Mod Trailer Wheel - 15" x 6" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2

(230)

$153.40

Karrier ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range C

(2230)

$141.64

Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel - 15" x 6" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2 - Galvanized Finish

(722)

$74.12

Americana High Pressure Rubber Snap-In Valve Stem - 1-1/2" Long - Up to 80 psi

(280)

$6.19

Question:

Can I go from 205/75R15 to 225/75R15 on my boat trailer? I want tires and rims, dont want to mount 225 tires on 205 rims.

asked by: Chuck

Expert Reply:

Yes, so long as you have the needed clearance, you can certainly upgrade the tires on your boat trailer from 205/75R15 to 225/75R15. The 225/75R15 tires will add just over 1/2 inch to the top of the tire, and be about 1/4 inch closer to the frame (you want at about 3" of clearance from the top of the tire to your fender and at least 1" of clearance between the inside of the tire and your trailer's frame rail).

You are correct that you'll need new wheels as well since 225/75-15 tires fit larger wheels than 205/75-15, and for a boat trailer I recommend either galvanized or aluminum for corrosion resistance. It is likely you have wheels with a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern, so what you can use are the following:

- Karrier ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire # AM10251

- Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel - 15" x 6" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2 - Galvanized Finish # AM20524
or
- Aluminum HWT Hi-Spec Series 03 Mod Trailer Wheel - 15" x 6" Rim - 5 on 4-1/2 # AM22627

The Galvanized # AM20524 comes with a valve stem but the Aluminum # AM22627 will need Valve Stem # AM20904.

And if you need lug nuts you can use the Lug Nut - Stainless Steel # KALN1375S.