What Axle/Hubs To Use On Utility Trailer With Toyota 4Runner Rims And Tires?  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hello Eugene, thanks for reaching out.

I typically don't recommend using vehicle tires for a trailer build. Car tires are made for ride comfort, and they are not meant for hauling and bearing weight like trailer tires are. Generally, you would want to use a trailer wheel and tire that are meant for a trailer. Can tires generally run at lower PSI, and have thinner sidewalls compared to trailer tires, so they can't handle heavy loads as well. If I am not mistaken the 4Runner wheels use a 6 on 5.5" bolt pattern which is common for trailers, so it can be done, you would just want to be careful not to overload them and you might have to adjust the PSI to get the ride right.

That said, we may have an axle/hub combo that will work for you, but I would need more information in order to make a recommendation. I will need to know what weight capacity you need, as well as the hub face length, and spring center distance (or frame width) of your trailer.

For example, the Trailer Axle w/ Electric Brakes # e75SR has an 89" HF, 74" SC and is rated for 5,200 lbs. It is equipped with electric drum brakes.

This can be used with the 4Runner tires as long as they are the 6 on 5-1/2", or with a trailer tire like the Kenda Karrier KR53 ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire with 15" Silver Mod Wheel - 6 on 5-1/2 # KE44WV.

Let me know what axle specs you are looking for and I am happy to get back to you and see if we have something more suited for your project. We can hook you up with U-bolts, leaf springs and suspension hardware if you are in need.

expert reply by: Jesse M

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e75SR
(click to enlarge)

Eugene

5/28/2025

Hi Jesse, After some consideration... It will end up as a camping trailer. Gross weight most likely in the range of 2000lbs. Size of the platform 6x10 or 6x12, welded from 2" wide tube. Make sense to concentrate on 3500# axle, with electric brake hubs. And reuse 4runner 265/65r17 tires, 6x5.5 bolt pattern, 7.5 wide rims, 106.1mm bore, 30mm (?) offset. Tire load capacity is about 2.3k or 2.7k each, depending on a brand. What would you recommend?

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Jesse M.

5/29/2025

@Eugene Yes a 3,500 lb axle does make sense for that. We offer 3,500 lb axles in both an 89" HF # e38GR and 95" HF # e68GR. There is also an axle-less option, the Timbren # ASR35HDS01. Then you could use that axle with the # AKIHUB-655-35-EZ-K idler hubs. Or with the # AKHD-655-35-EZ-K hub/drums and # AKEBRK-35-SA brakes. Both of the hubs are 6 on 5-1/2".

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