Can a 4.80 x 12 Size Bias Tire be Replaced With a 145/80-12 Radial Tire

Question:

My boat trailer has 4.80x12 bias ply tires and Im planning a trip to florida soon. If i go with a 145/12 radial will i be ok for the trip? Trip will be close to 1200 miles round trip. Mostly interstate riding

asked by: Ryan W

Expert Reply:

You likely are going to be better off with the 145/80-12 sized radial than the 4.80 x 12 bias because radials are much better for highway use. They run cooler and have better tread wear than a bias tire. The larger tire is about an inch taller so you need to make sure you have enough clearance between the tread and the underside of your fenders. They'll also be about an inch wider. You want at least 3 to 4 inches from under the fender and at least 2 inches between the sidewall and any part of the trailer. As long as you have the clearance you'll be good to go. You can even use the same rims you have now.

We carry two 145/80-12 tires:

Part # AM10130 which is a Load Range D rated for 1,220 pounds at 65 psi.
Part # AM10140 which is a Load Range E rated for 1,520 pounds at 80 psi.

expert reply by: Charles S