Can 12 inch Trailer Wheel and Tire be Replaced with 13 inch

Updated 09/03/2025 | Published 06/26/2025

Question:

Good morning. I am a former customer I Need the correct size Hub centric wheel adapter for a 5x8 Carry-on, utility Trailer. The trailer has its standard axle with five lugs, and has a 12 inch tires. I want to convert to a 13 inch wheel and use 155, 80 13R tires. I will be using a five lug wheel . I already have the tire rating figured out. I just need to get the right hub, centric adapter that goes on a wheel that will fit the tire size. I just mentioned..

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

Hey John, since you have a 5 lug 12 inch wheel currently and want to upgrade to a 13 inch wheel what you really only need to do is match the bolt pattern of what you have to the new wheel you are looking for. Most likely it's the very common 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern but the 13 inch size you mentioned isn't a standard trailer tire size so that would be a little concerning.

The part # AM31951 most likely would work for you as this is a tire size of ST175/80R13 on a 13 inch wheel with a 5 on 4-1/2 bolt pattern. I attached a link to a page that has how to find the bolt pattern if you are sure of what you have. If you have something different let me know.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Jameson C.

9/2/2025

Hey John, did you have a chance to check the bolt pattern on your trailer to see if it matches the 5 on 4-1/2 inch pattern? I'm here to help if you need more assistance with finding the right adapter.

John

9/2/2025

@JamesonC Yes, I did. The 13 inch rims fit perfectly without any need for adjustment at all. I really like the wider tire at 155, versus the little pizza wheel 12 inch that came with the original trailer. The 155 is OK for now. But I’ll probably go to 175 when the set wears-out. Thank you so much for checking.