Larger Tire Size to Replace 4.80-12 on Trailer Axle
Updated 09/29/2025 | Published 09/03/2025 >
Question:
Hello. I have a 5x8 carry on trailer. It has a 2k axle with 4.80x12 tires. I am wanting to put on a bigger size for safety reasons pulling it on hwy for distance. I am considering a axle flip for clearance really didnt wanna change axle out on it. Would you happen to have a idea what size radical tire and rim that would fit on it with my axle. I have about 4in clearance between frame and tire.
asked by: Brent H
Expert Reply:
Hey Brent, it's generally recommended to keep 3-4 inches as the minimum tire to fender (vertical clearance) and around 1 inch from the tire sidewall to the trailer frame. So if you are wanting something wider and a little taller that will fit the part # AM10140 would be a great solution that fits your current wheel. This is about an inch wider and almost 2 inches taller overall but would only take up a little less than an inch of fender clearance.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range E
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire Only
- Radial Tire
- Load Range E
- 145/80-12
- 12 Inch
- M - 81 mph
- Kenda
more information >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Can a 5.30-12 Size Tire be Replaced with a ST145/R12 Size Tire
- Q&A: Are ST145/R12 Tires And 4.80-12 Tires The Same Size?
- Q&A: Which is Better for Highway Use 4.80-12 or 5.30-12 Trailer TIres
- Q&A: Need Taskmaster 5.30R12 Tire With Galvanized 5 on 4-1/2 Wheel
- Article: The #1 RV Roof Maintenance Tip: Keep it Clean (Here's How)
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing
- Q&A: What Size Dust Cap Does The Dexter Idler Hub DX77UR Use?
- Q&A: Can I Re-Drill the Spring Center Mounting Holes on the CE Smith Trailer Axle CE33201GA-HUB?
- Q&A: Are Trailer Wheel and Tire Combos Balanced
- Article: 7 Common Questions Everyone Has About Trailer Tires
- Article: Installing an Electric Brake Controller on 2007-2013 GM Full-Size Truck or 2007-Present GM SUV
- Article: Trailer Maintenance Schedule
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern


Jameson C.
9/29/2025
Hey Brent, did the Kenda Karrier tire work out for your trailer? I'm asking because your experience could help others looking to upgrade their trailer tires for highway use.