Recommended Radial Trailer Tire to Replace 4.80-12 Tires on Snowmobile Trailer

Question:

I need to replace my 4.80-12 load range B tires on my single place snowmobile trailer. Right now I have Carlile USA tires. Would a radial or bias ply be better for this application? We travel long distance highway speeds. The tires on it are 16 years old and I never had a problem with them till now. One has a slow leak.

asked by: Paul R

Expert Reply:

To replace the tires on your snowmobile trailer, I definitely recommend going to a radial ply trailer tire. A radial tire is going to flex more than a bias ply alternative, giving it better ground contact, traction and stability. They will also run cooler than a bias tire, which will in turn help it to last longer, as the most common cause for tire failure is excessive heat. Since you will be doing a lot of long distance, highway driving, a radial tire is going to be your best option.

We do not currently have any radial ply tires for the 4.80-12 size you mentioned, so I recommend upgrading in size just a bit to the Kenda Karrier S-Trail Radial Trailer Tire # AM10130. This ST145/R12 tire is the closest size to what you have and will be just about an inch wider and taller in diameter than your existing set. You will just want to make sure you have the necessary clearance on your trailer for the slightly larger size.

This is a great special trailer tire that has a load capacity of 1,220 pounds at 65 psi. It also includes a limited 2-year warranty. I have attached a short video demonstration on this tire that you can take a look at. I have also attached a couple of articles on trailer tires that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Chris R