Is There Radial Tire Replacement Available for 8x5 Trailer with 4.80-12 Size Tires

Updated 03/12/2026 | Published 03/07/2026

Question:

I have an 8x5 Carry-On utility trailer and am hoping to be able to upgrade the tires to radial tires. They currently have 4.80-12 bias tires, with wheels that have 5 Lugs on a 4-1/2 pattern. What radial tires would you recommend to replace these, and would there be enough clearance between the tire and the fender? Thanks.

asked by: Mark B

Expert Reply:

Hey Mark, welcome back! The Kenda wheel and tire part # AM31202 would be exactly what you are looking for. This is a radial tire in a size that is close enough to what you have now that it will fit without any clearance issues and is mounted on a wheel with the correct bolt pattern as well. Radial tires are overall just better than bias ply in all ways so this will be a solid move for your trailer. What do you normally haul in the trailer?

expert reply by: Jameson C

Ronald

3/11/2026

They are great plenty of room under the fender on my molne trailer . They wear very well , and run smooth , and in 5 years from now i will buy them again , etrailer has the best prices , and there experts know what they are talking about . Having good tires on your trailer is cheap insurance , against a sidewall blow out on the road .

Jameson C.

3/11/2026

@Ronald thanks for the feedback!!

Dave H.

3/12/2026

I had this exact situation 2 years ago with my single jet ski trailer. I wanted a bigger tire with a faster speed rating to haul back and forth to my place in FL. E trailer made the same recommendation and I went with (including buying a third wheel and tire for the spare). I've towed about 5000 miles with my new wheels and tires and it's been great. Cruises easily and 75 mph all day. Highly recommend

Billy

3/12/2026

@DaveH I've had the exact same experience. I haul a single jetski on my Shorelandr jetski trailer from Philly to Miami every winter. The stock wheels & tires were fine, but I upgraded to these tires (wheel & tire combo) two years ago and just like you said, I cruise 75MPH the whole trip and it's been very smooth so far the past two years. I'll replace them every few years with the exact same ones.