Will A Wider 5.70x8 Tire Size Fit On A Trailer With A 4.80x8 Tire Size

Question:

I currently have 4.80x8 tires on 4 lug x 4 bolt circle rims on my trailer. I would like to change to 5.70x8 on 4 lug x 4 bolt circle rims. Outside diameter is no problem for clearance. Offset to the outside is no problem. But, I would like to know the decrease in clearance on the inside that I would experience by going with the wider tire - I do not want it to rub on the frame. Thanks!

asked by: Bruce H

Expert Reply:

The diameter of a 4.80x8 tire is 16.1 inches and the diameter of the 5.70x8 tire is 18.1 inches. The difference in overall diameter is 2 inches. You will want to make sure you have clearance for an extra 2 inches in height.

The section width of the 4.80x8 tire is 4.7 inches and the section width of the 5.70x8 tire is 5.8 inches. The difference in overall section width is 1.1 inches.

Both of the tires will fit on a 8 inch x 3-3/4 inch wheel. The wheel will have a zero offset, so when you change to the larger 5.70x8 tire you will be adding about a 1/2 inch width to the outside and a 1/2 inch width to the inside. If you measure with your 4.80x8 tire on the trailer now, you will want to make sure you have clearance on the inside of the tire of more than 3/4 inch. I am saying 3/4 inch so you will not have any rubbing issues when the trailer is loaded.

The tire you have referenced is the Kenda K353 Bias Trailer Tire - 5.70-8 - Load Range B, # AM10010. This tire will have a maximum load of 760 lbs. at 90 psi. You will want to make sure to run the maximum 90 psi in the tire so you will be able to maintain the maximum load rating of 760 lbs.

expert reply by: Jeff D