Can Smaller Tires be Added to Boat Trailer to Lower Height

Question:

I have a tandem axle boat trailer with 175/80/13 load range C tires on it presently. Can I use the 215/60/8 load range D wheel combo as a replacement to drop my overall height. If not what would you recommend to go with to still lower the overall height?

asked by: Roger

Expert Reply:

The current 175/80-13 size tires on your boat trailer have an overall diameter/height of 24.1 inches and a width of 6.9 inches. The smaller 215/60-8 tires that you mentioned will certainly be smaller in height with a diameter of 18.3 inches, but will actually have a larger width of 8.5 inches. Going to this smaller size will definitely help lower the trailer, but you will just want to make sure you have the necessary clearance on the trailer for the wider tire.

Another factor you will need to keep in mind is the maximum load capacity of the smaller tires. You will need to make sure that the combined capacity on the new tires still meets or exceeds the loaded weight of your trailer. For example, the Kenda 215/60-8 Bias Trailer Tire with 8 Inch Galvanized Wheel # AM3H325 has a maximum load of 1,165 pounds at 70 psi. This Load Range D tire is the largest capacity tire of this size we currently have available. It also features a 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this tire and wheel combo that you can also check out.

expert reply by: Chris R