Recommendation for Tire and Wheel to use as Spare on Boat Trailer with 155R/12C 83/81Q Tires

Updated 06/27/2014 | Published 06/25/2014

Question:

I have a boat trailer with tire size 155R 12C 83/81Q bolt 4 on 4 I want to purchase an inexpensive bias ply for a spare, and want to confirm I have chosen the right size. The tire/wheel I am looking at on your web page is Kenda 5.30-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12inch White Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range C Can you confirm this size tire will work for me? Thanks

asked by: Hugh G

Expert Reply:

Yes, the Kenda 5.30-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12 Inch White Wheel, # AM30780, will work for you but I recommend that you only use it as an emergency spare. This bias ply tire has a section width of 5.6 inches, an outer diameter of 21.9 inches, and a maximum load rating of 1,045 pounds at 80 psi.

Although we do not have a 155R/12C 83/81Q tire available, I was able to obtain a bit of information about it. That radial tire has a section width of 6.18 inches, an outer diameter of 21.4 inches, and a maximum load rating of 1080 pounds.

It is always recommended that all tires match. Using mismatched tires can lead to more of a load being put on the smaller size tire which can cause problems to occur. With different tire constructions, the radial tire would run cooler than the bias ply tire and the tracking of the trailer would also be affected. Due to the difference in size and construction of the original tire and the Kenda Tire, # AM30780, this is why I only recommend using it as an emergency spare.

expert reply by: Leah S