Will Tire Size 235/80-16 Replace 7.00R15LT on Trailer

Question:

Dump trailer presently has 15inch 6x5/12 and 7.00R15LT. Clearance is fine to the fender but only 2inch to the frame. Will an up size to a 16inch 235 80R16 be narrow enough for that clearance?

asked by: Lee

Expert Reply:

The minimum distance between the inside of a tire and the frame rail depends a lot on the setup of the trailer. But as long as the tire and the frame don't touch you would be fine. It's hard to give an exact figure as trailer setups can vary and some trailers may have more side to side movement which would call for more clearance.

If the suspension is good on the trailer and not worn out I would go with at least 1-1/2 inches to be on the safe side. Some might get by with 1 inch but I would much rather people have around 2 inches plus.

The difference in tire widths for the sizes you mentioned is 1.4 inch overall which means .7 inches of less clearance since that width is split on either side of the wheel centerline. So that means you should be good with a tire like the # TA59VR in place of your current setup.

expert reply by: Jameson C