Looking For Ideas On How To Get Better Speed Rated Tires On My Trailer
Updated 07/14/2025 | Published 07/11/2025
Question:
Hello, I just built my new Haulmaster trailer from Harbor Freight 1720 lb. Capacity 4’x8’ Folding. My challenge is that the 5.3x12, 5 lug wheels say 55 mph max. I really want to be able to go faster. So, I put on two ST175/80R13 wheels max speed rating 81mph. Upon initial inspection, the fender clearance and frame clearance are insufficient. I’m now considering possible next steps: 1 Find and install 5.3x12 wheels with a higher speed rating preferably 81mph, but at least 65mph. or 2 Stick with my new ST175/80R13s, but install a longer axle more frame clearance, and maybe better water resistance for kayak launching and retrofit some wider fenders. I’d appreciate any guidance and product recommendations you might share. Thanks, Robert
asked by: Robert B
Expert Reply:
Hey Robert,
We do have a tire that is the 5.30x12 5 lug pattern that jumps to a 65mph speed rating, the Kenda # AM30859. That would give you the original clearance and at least get up to 65mph for your trailer.
You could go with a bigger axle. I did some research but was not able to find the exact axle size you currently have on that trailer. To find a new axle I would need to know the original size, along with how much more clearance you need. The fenders will be a bit easier since those can be modified to fit different applications.
In my opinion I would go with the original tire size for 65mph rating. Going with a bigger axle may change the ride of the trailer completely from how it rides normally. If you want to change the axle, let me know the current size and roughly how much more length you would need and I can take a look.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Kenda 5.30-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Bias Ply Tire
- Load Range D
- 5.30-12
- 12 Inch
- K - 65 mph
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Powder Coat
- Kenda
more information >
Continue Researching
- Search Results: st145r12
- Search Results: wheel
- Video: An In-Depth Look at the Kenda Karrier ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire with 12" Black Mod Wheel
- Q&A: Can 12 Inch Trailer Tires and Wheels be Replaced with 13 Inch
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between Load Range B and C Trailer Tires
- Article: 7 Common Questions Everyone Has About Trailer Tires
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing
- Search Results: wheel spacers
- Shop: Kenda Karrier ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire with 12" Black Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR D
- Shop: Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Tire w/ 12" Galvanized Spoke Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR D
- Shop: Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Tire w/ 12" White Spoke Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR D
- Shop: Malone MicroSport Trailer with Post Style Carriers for 4 Kayaks - 800 lbs
- Shop: Loadstar 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" Galvanized Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range C
- Shop: Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Tire w/ 12" White Spoke Wheel - 4 on 4 - LR D
- Shop: Malone EcoLight Sport Trailer with V-Style Carriers for 2 Kayaks - 400 lbs
- Q&A: Spare Tire Cover for 4.80-12 Trailer Tire
- Shop: Spare Tire Cover
- Q&A: Can a 5.30-12 Size Tire be Replaced with a ST145/R12 Size Tire
- Q&A: Which is Better for Highway Use 4.80-12 or 5.30-12 Trailer TIres
- Article: Best Air Bag Suspension 2025
- Q&A: Recommended 5.30-12 Tires With Load Rating Of D
- Q&A: Recommended 5.30R12 Trailer Tire for Highway Use
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Article: Our Team Picked The Best Camping Gear of the Year - Here Are Their Top Choices
- Article: Most Popular Wheel Bearings
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 4-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
Robert
7/14/2025
What about the AM35354? It looks like it’s rated for 81 mph.