Trailer Wheel Pilot Hole is Close But Not Exact for Hub-Centric Idler Hubs and Wheel Bolts

Question:

My trailer is light duty for a 14 foot aluminum boat. Currently it has 8 inch wheels held on with tapered bolts. I just purchased a set of 12 inch wheels to give me extra clearance. The wheels I purchased from e trailer have a 2.8 inch pilot hole. My current wheels have a 2 7/8 pilot. Will this work ? I have read your answer that if you have bolts your rims are hub centric. If its a problem can I replace the trailers hubs?

asked by: Barry W

Expert Reply:

The difference between 2.8 inches and 2-7/8 inches is only 0.075 inches. That will work out fine for your hub-centric style hubs and wheel bolts. The other option is to replace the hubs with ones that use lug nuts. For that I would need to know the inner and outer bearing numbers stamped into the sides of the bearings in the hub you have now.

expert reply by: Michael H