Do I Need To Change My Bearings If I Change the Tire/Wheels on the Trailer?

Updated 09/21/2026 | Published 09/13/2026

Question:

I have built a tear trailer up from Northern Tool trailer. It came with 13 wheels and tires. They have a 55 mph restriction. Do need different bearings as well to get to 65? Any advice would be awesome.

asked by: Dave W

Expert Reply:

Hi Dave,

The tires and wheels are chosen based off the weight of the trailer/load, what the bolt pattern is, and the necessary speed rating.

The bearings are inside the hub that the tire/wheel fits over and doesn't affect the tire/wheel. If you were to go with wheels that are a different bolt pattern than the hub, you would have to change the hubs as well, and the newer hubs may have different bearings in them.

Can you tell me what the weight of your teardrop trailer is and what bolt pattern your hubs are? I can pick tires or a tire and wheel combo with a higher speed rating if I have that information.

expert reply by: Claire H

Dave W.

9/20/2026

1000 pounds, 5 bolts. 13" rims.

Claire H.

9/21/2026

@DaveW Since your teardrop trailer is 1,000lbs with 13" wheels and 5 bolts, you likely have a 5 on 4 1/2 bolt pattern. I do suggest you measure to verify that to ensure that the wheels fit. I've linked a help article with a video that explains the process. As for tire/wheel combos, I'm not sure if you have a preference for how the wheel looks, but the Kenda Karrier KR52 ST175/80R13 part # KE35EV has a standard steel power coated 13" wheel with tires that are rated for 87 mph and 1,360lbs at 50 psi. If you prefer a wheel that's a bit fancier, we also have the Kenda Karrier KR35 ST175/80R13 part # KE22XJ. The KE22XJ has a 13" aluminum wheel with a black and silver design, is rated for 1,360lbs at 50 psi, and 87 mph.

Helpful Links

faq-wheel-bolt-pattern.aspx