Replacement Tire Needed for 6.50-13 Size Tire on Boat Trailer

Question:

My old boat trailer tires need replaced. They are: 6.50-13 old # I beleive. Can I replace with 4.80-8 6-Ply Bias Trailer Tire and Wheel Assembly, 5-on-4.5 Bolt Pattern? Trying to see what’s compatable to tire 6.50-13. Thanks for the help

asked by: Bryan

Expert Reply:

If you were to change out from 6.50-13 size tires to 4.80-8 size tires it would be a pretty big change in the tire size. Not only is the tire smaller, but your wheel alone would be 5 inches smaller in diameter. Instead I recommend going with a 185/80-13 or 175/80-13 size tire as a replacement.

A 185/80-13 size tire/wheel combination, like the Kenda Loadstar # AM3S334 is much more of a comparable size tire, but it has a section width that is about 3/4" wider than your current tire. If you have enough room for this then the Loadstar is a Bias tire with a load range D (1,710 lbs at 65 psi), has an 81 mph speed rating, and comes with a wheel that has a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern.

If the extra width is too much for your application the I recommend going with a 175/80-13 size tire, like the Kenda Karrier # AM31994. This is a Radial tire (which is better for road use) that has a load range of D (this one is 1,610 lbs at 65 psi). It comes with an 81 mph speed rating and the wheel has a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern.

Both of these options come with a wheel that has a galvanized finish on them. This will hold up to rust and corrosion from exposure to water better than the common powder coat finish does.

expert reply by: Jon G