Can I Upgrade My Trailer To Larger Tires Without Changing Out The Axle?

Updated 08/08/2024 | Published 08/06/2024

Question:

I have a small catamaran trailer with 12” 4 lug wheels/hubs. Can I size up to something larger than 12” without changing the axle? If I change the hubs to a five lug hub, does that make it possible? When traveling to distant regattas, I am limited to less than 70mph as the hubs blow out grease.

asked by: Michael H

Expert Reply:

Hello Michael. You may be able to size up the hubs on your trailer without changing the axle, but it completely depends on the spindle size and what bearings your hub uses. Once we know the bearing sizes, we can determine what hubs will fit your axle and what your options are.

The best way to determine this is to pull a hub off and remove the bearings. Each bearing should have a number stamped on the edge, or you can measure the inner diameter of each bearing with a micrometer. If you can provide me with the inner and outer bearing numbers, or the ID of each I am happy to look into it and see what your options are.

Another thing to consider is the clearance in the wheel well/fender area. A lot of times the placement of the fender will limit your ability to use larger tires. Our rule of thumb is that you want at least 3" between the tire and the fender, and at least 1" between the inside of the tire and the frame of the trailer. So, this is definitely something to keep in mind when looking at larger tires. For now, let's confirm those bearing sizes and we can take it from there.

expert reply by: Jesse M