Can 12 Inch Trailer Tires and Wheels be Replaced with 13 Inch

Question

Question:

In changing from a 12 to a 13” wheel, how tall is the 13? Probably have to change fenders, just double checking

asked by: Bob

0

Expert Reply:

The smallest diameter 13 inch trailer wheel and tire will have a diameter of 24.1 inches (ST175/80-13). There are 3 common 12 inch trailer tire sizes: 4.80-12 has a diameter of 20.5 inches, 5.30-12 has a diameter of 21.9 inches, and 145/80-12 has a diameter of 21.3 inches.

So basically the overall difference between the two sizes, depending on the specific 12 inch size, is between 2.2 inches and 3.6 inches.

Half of the difference applies to the bottom of the tire from the center of the spindle to the bottom of the tire. The other half will apply to the top half of the tire. That means that the 13 inch tire will be 1.1 to 1.8 inches closer to the bottom of the fender.

You also have to consider the travel of the suspension. You could need as much as 4 inches of space between the tops of the tires and the undersides of the fenders. Going to a larger size will reduce that clearance.

I have included a link to all of the 175/80-13 tire and wheel combos we have. Most have the 5 on 4-1/2 bolt pattern but there are a few with a 4 on 4 pattern if that is what the trailer requires.

expert reply by: Michael H

0

Todd

7/26/2024

Can I increase my trailer tire 4.80x12 to a 13" tire?

Reply

Robin H.

7/28/2024

@Todd as long as you have the clearance for it. Depending on the exact size a 13" tire is going to have an outer diameter approximately 4" larger than your 4.80-12 tire. That means you're going to lose 2" of clearance on the top. It will also be about 1-1/2" wider. You want at least 2" on the inside and 3" on top for proper clearance.

Reply

Bill D.

8/16/2025

Raised stock OEM (jeep style) angled 12" wheel/4.80 tire combo fenders mounting position by adding 4" longer vertical fender mounting brackets on 5x8 Carry On trailer when changing to the 13" wheel/175/80 tire combo. Don't know if this repositioning would work on a curved fender, though. The angled type fenders seem to have plenty of clearance at the tires mid-point (3 and 9 o'clock) outer diameter/tire, being higher up, and no clearance problem from the trailer side frame.

Reply

Answer 1

That we are Shane! So since you mentioned you have wires behind the driver's side rear tire, that would indicate that you have the factory tow package, so the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness for Factory Tow Package #118269 is what you'll want.…

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Answer 2

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Answer 3

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Answer 4

Hey Miguel, we do have trailer wiring kits that fit your 2025 Kia Sorento but none that match the 14 in connector you have found. For a 7-way we have the part #TK24FR or for a 4-way part #118269. These use a totally different looking connector. Do…

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Answer 5

Hey Eric, check out the attached install video that is on this page (scroll down to see it) and you'll see exactly how to install the Tekonsha trailer wiring kit #118269 that you have.

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Answer 6

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Answer 7

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Answer 8

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Answer 9

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Answer 10

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Answer 11

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Answer 12

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