Tire Replacement Recommendation for a Tent Trailer

Published 08/08/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Karrier ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire with 13" White Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D

(1575)

$149.74

Kenda K353 Bias Trailer Tire - 5.30-12 - Load Range D

(3888)

$61.42

Question:

I have a 1980 Bonair tent trailer with 5.3x12 tires on it. I was wondering if it would be possible to increase the tire width? Then I would have better handling? This is my first trailer and I want to have the best ride I can get. I not possible, should I replace the rims as well? or just get 2 new tires. The spare is in good shape, but the others are crap! Thanks

asked by: Deborah M

Helpful Expert Reply:

If the tires are in bad shape just by replacing them with new tires and having them inflated properly will improve your ride quality. The 5.30x12 is the widest and biggest tire available for your rim size so to go to a bigger tire you would need to upgrade the rim as well, which before you do that you will need to consider the clearances you have on your trailer and if a wider and/or taller tire would fit.

The next biggest size would be the 175/80R13 which would be about 3 inches taller and about 30 mm wider so you would need to check for clearances. For a rim and tire with a 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern in that size that is a radial tire (best ride quality) you would want the part # AM31985. If you are unsure of your bolt pattern see the link I attached.

If you wanted to stick with your current tire size I would recommend the # AM10068.

I also attached an FAQ article on trailer tires for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jameson C