Can Trailer with 12 inch Wheels be Upgraded to 14
Updated 09/16/2026 | Published 09/14/2026
Question:
I have a tandem axle boat trailer, it currently has 12 wheels. I would like to upgrade to 14 Will I need to mount new hangers, and longer springs to space the axles farther apart? It currently has 20 leaf springs.
asked by: JD P
Expert Reply:
Hey JD, it comes down to how much space between the tires you have now whether or not you will need to move things around. There's a chance you could switch the wheels and it would work fine but there's the vertical clearance to consider above the tire to the fender, clearance between inner tire sidewall and the frame and also distance between the tires themselves.
Between tires you want at least 1 inch, from top of tire to bottom of fender at least 3 inches, and inner sidewall tire to frame 1 inch.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Kenda Karrier KR53 ST175/80R13 LRC Radial Trailer Tire w/ 13" Nardo Gray Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Radial Tire
- Load Range C
- 175/80-13
- 13 Inch
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Steel Wheels - Powder Coat
- Kenda
more information >
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