Can Trailer With 12,000 lb Single Axle Switch From Dual 16 Inch to 17-1/2 Inch Wheels

Updated 03/06/2025 | Published 10/01/2022

Question:

Hello, can I replace the dual 16” wheels on a dexter 10k/12k axle with single 17.5 wheels as long as the bolt pattern and the lug stud diameters are the same?

asked by: Chad H

Expert Reply:

Yes, as long as the bolt pattern and wheel bolt size match you can switch to the larger single wheels. For example, if you have an 8 on 6-1/2 bolt pattern with 5/8" wheel bolts you could use the # TA45ZR. However, you would need to find a tire that has a capacity high enough for your trailer or you would be limited by the capacity of the tire.

I have attached a link to all of our 17-1/2" wheels and tires for your reference.

expert reply by: Robin H

Steve

3/6/2025

Would more of the lug stud just be exposed or is a spacer required?

Robin H.

3/6/2025

@Steve more of the stud would be exposed. If you want the tire to sit where the outside tire was before you would have to add in some kind of spacer.

Steve

3/6/2025

@RobinH Can 16 wheels handle 6005 lb load ? Do you sell a spacer? Do you sell a 4x 17.5 wheel with tire package that can fit 2 12k axles?

Robin H.

3/6/2025

@Steve based on the wheels we have a 16" couldn't handle it. However, it depends on the wheel so I suppose it is possible there is one out there with a high enough capacity. Then again, even if you found one you would need a 16" tire with a 6k capacity. We do not sell spacers. All of our 17-1/2" wheels are 17-1/2" x 6-3/4". If that will work for you then then a wheel and tire combo like the # TR85ZR can match the capacity of 12k axles. This has a negative 0.5" offset which will help push the wheel out a little from the hub. All of these wheels are also hub-piloted so you need to make sure the 4.76" pilot diameter matches what you have now.