Can I Switch My ST215/75R14 Tires to ST205/65R14 on my Boat Trailer for Garage Clearance

Updated 09/26/2025 | Published 04/22/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Provider ST215/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire with 14" Vesper Silver Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR C

(501)

$207.76

Question:

I have a new 2025 Shorelander trailer for a 19foot Yamaha boat. The trailer has ST215/75 D14 tires. Im looking to reduce the height of the boat on the trailer garage storage and want to know if ST205/65 R14 with a load range of D tires would work? The existing tires have a capacity of 1870 and the 65 R14s have a capacity of 1820. Boat and trailer have a combined weight of 3,170 lbs.

asked by: John C

Expert Reply:

Hi John,

You're on the right track, and it's great that you're considering both the height and load capacity in your tire change plan.

Your current tires ST215/75R14 are about 26.7" in diameter and the ST205/65R14 Load Range D tires you want to switch to, are a bit shorter—about 24.5" in diameter. That would lower your setup by about 1.1 inches which could help with garage clearance but you want to take weight capacity into consideration.

If you have a single axle, your tire weight capacity with the new tires will be 3,640 lbs combined, which gives you a 470 lb cushion so you'll be safe. We currently do not carry any ST205/65R14 Load Range D tires that I can offer.

Comment below if you have any questions!

expert reply by: Heather A

Heather A.

9/26/2025

Hi John, did you decide to go with the shorter tires for your trailer to help with garage storage? I'm curious to know how it worked out for you, as it could help others looking to make similar adjustments.