Can Tires Be Upgraded to Larger Size on Carry-On Trailer With 4.80-12 Tires

Updated 01/19/2026 | Published 08/07/2024

Question:

I have a 5x8 mesh Cary on trailer 898 kg 1980lb 4:80 x 12c 12 x 4ja 621 kpa 90 psi single and I want to get bigger better tire will these work

asked by: Jefferey B

Expert Reply:

Hi Jefferey; the # AM35354 is only slightly larger so you will probably be able to use it to replace your current tires. However, you will still need to measure for clearance to be sure. This ST145/R12 tire has an outer diameter of 21.3" and 5.7" section width. Your current 4.80-12 tire probably has an outer diameter of 20.5" and a 4.8" section width.

This means you would lose .45" of clearance on the inside and .4" on top of the tire. At a minimum you want to have 3" on top and 2" on the inside to allow for suspension travel. It looks like most of the trailers have fenders so depending on the clearance you have left you might need to remove them, but with such a small loss of clearance you may be able to avoid that.

expert reply by: Robin H

Robin H.

1/19/2026

Hey Jefferey, how did things turn out with the Kenda Karrier tires on your 5x8 mesh Cary trailer? Did the clearance work out okay with your fenders? Your update could make it easier for the next person looking to upsize their trailer tires.