Replacement Trailer Tire Recommendation for a 18.5x8.5-8 Tire

Published 05/20/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Kenda K371 Bias Trailer Tire - 4.80/4.00-8 - Load Range C

(4029)

$32.68

Loadstar K399 Bias Trailer Tire - 215/60-8 - Load Range D

(4027)

$71.19

Question:

I have a trailer that currently has 18.5 x 8.5-8 tires on it and i am wondering if i can change to a 4.80-8 tire. it is a flat trailer and the tires sit under it. THe clearance is about 20. Thanks

asked by: Doug B

Expert Reply:

The 18.5x8.5-8 is actually an old tire size that is not used much anymore. The closest metric size to your existing tire would be 215/60-8, which is what I would recommend. The 4.80-8 tire size that you are interested in is designed to fit 3-3/4 inch wide rims, whereas the 215-60-8 that is close to what you have currently is designed to fit 7 inch wide rims so I do not think a 4.80-8 would install on your rim. Plus the fact that the 4.80-8 has much lower capacity than the 215/60-8 tire size.

For a replacement tire I would recommend you go with the Loadstar K399 Bias Trailer Tire part # AM1HP28.

expert reply by: Jameson C