Can 175/80-13 Tires be Upgraded to Different Size to Carry a 4,000 lb Boat

Question:

i have a boat trailer currently with a 175/80/13 tires on it my boat is close to 4000 lbs its a single axle trailer. what would be the best size tire and rim for it

asked by: Jeff B

Helpful Expert Reply:

As long as you have the 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern for your hubs then you could fit a larger tire and wheels like the 15" Aluminum Wheel # AM22653 and the Castle Rock ST225/75R15 Radial Tire # 274-000029. You will need to check the dimensions to see if you have room. This Wheel has a load range of D (2,150 lbs at 65 psi) which will be able to handle your 4,000 lb boat plus an extra 300 lbs.

The other thing that needs to be addressed though before you start carrying your 4K boat around on your trailer is the weight of your boat. The highest rated axle that a hub with a 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern should fit is only rated for 3,500 lbs so your boat alone would be well over the weight rating, not to mention the weight of the trailer itself.

Before you continue to swap out the tires and wheels I recommend checking the weight rating of not only your axle but your boat trailer as well. You can fairly easily change out your axle for one with a higher weight rating or add another axle but if the trailer frame isn't rated high enough it will still be dangerous to carry your boat around.

You should be able to find the weight ratings of your trailer and axle on a sticker or plaque near the tongue of your trailer.

expert reply by: Jon G