Can 205/65-10 Wheels and Tires Be Used In Place of 4.80-12 For Driving On Sand?
Updated 02/03/2026 | Published 07/18/2024
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Question:
I have a boat trailer with 4.80-12 5 on 4.5 tires and rims. I want to replace these tires with wider tires, for launching the boat on a sandy beach. Im looking at 205/65-10 5 on 4.5. The current clearance between the tire sidewall is 3/4. From what I can tell, Ill to install hub offset rings to have a clearance of one inch between the sidewall and frame for the 205/65-10. Is this correct? Im assuming the hub bolts at the hub are 1/2 the rim width. Is this correct? What advice do you have?
asked by: John E
Expert Reply:
As you only have 3/4" of sidewall clearance with your 4.80-12 # AM30670 you are most likely going to have to get a new axle to be able to fit 205/65-10 Tires # AM3H400. These tires are 8.3" wide which is 3.4" inches wider than your current tires. This means the hub center would need to move over almost 2" on each side so you get the 1" of sidewall clearance your tire should have. I would also be cautious with wheel spacers as your threads are not going to be long enough for the spacer you need and it does cause additional stress on the bearings when using spacers since the weight isn't going to be centered on the hub.
To go with any wider tires it would be best to have a wider axle. If you can give me some information about your axle size and length I can see if we have any options for you.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Loadstar 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" Galvanized Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Bias Ply Tire
- Load Range C
- 4.80-12
- 12 Inch
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Galvanized
- Kenda
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Jesse M.
2/3/2026
Hey, how did things go with the wider 205/65-10 tires on your boat trailer? Were you able to find an axle that gave you the clearance you needed? Your update could make it easier for others looking to upgrade for sandy launches.