What To Consider When Upsizing 4.80/4.00-8 Size Trailer Tires

Question:

I need to know what to ask for in a bigger tire and rim to fit the bolt pattern. I think its a 5 on 41/2? Tire size is 4.80/4.00-8.

asked by: David A

Expert Reply:

When looking at putting larger tires on a trailer, it is important to ensure that there is sufficient clearance for the larger tire. We recommend having 4-1/2 inches of clearance between the tire tread and the fender/underside of the trailer. This clearance allows 1-1/2 inches for suspension travel and 3 inches for bump clearance. For the inside clearance, we typically like to see 2 inches between the tire sidewall and trailer.

Your trailer's existing 4.80/4.00-8 size tires have an overall diameter of approximately 16 inches and a width of 3-3/4 inches. In this size tire, the only 5 wheel bolt pattern available is 5 on 4-1/2 inches. Moving up to a larger tire will significantly add to the height and width of the tires. For example, if you go up to a 10 inch wheel with 205/65-10 size tire, such as # AM3H350, the overall diameter is around 20-1/2 inches and the width is around 8 inches.

This next size up tire will bring the tire tread nearly 2-1/2 inches closer to the trailer fender/frame and bring the tire sidewall 2-1/8 inches closer to the trailer frame.

A 12 inch wheel with a 4.80-12 size tire, such as # AM30660, would also bring the tire tread 2-1/4 inches closer to the fender/frame, but the sidewall would come only 1/2 inch closer to the frame.

I have linked our tire and wheel combos in each size to this page for you, as well as a couple of trailer tire help articles.

expert reply by: Victoria B