Can 13 Inch Trailer Tires Be Used in Place of 12 Inch Trailer Tires

Question:

Recently bought a carry-on trailer 5x8G with 4.80 - 12in tires. I want to see if I can switch to a 13 in tire. I have 3 1/4 between tire and trailer and 2 1/4 between top of tire and fender. Will the 13 fit?

asked by: Troy S

Expert Reply:

The ST175/80-13 trailer tire size is approximately 3.6 inches taller than the tires you have now. Half of that is applied above the axle center line so there will be less than 1/2 an inch of clearance between the fender and the top of the tire. You should have about 3 inches of clearance to account for travel of the suspension. Going to a 13 inch tire will not work unless you can raise the fenders up about 2-5/8 inches.

What you could do is go to a 145/80-12 tire such as # AM10140. It will be about 0.8 inches taller than what you have now so 0.4 inches closer to the fender. You will have less clearance still but it is the option that is most likely to work. Also, this tire size fits the same wheels you have now so you would be saving some money. I have included a link to video review of this tire.

expert reply by: Michael H