Comparing Steel vs Aluminum 8 Lug Trailer Wheels for Hotshot Business
Question:
i’ve been looking at swapping my steel wheels for aluminum wheels. I run a hotshot setup and i’ve had a couple of the steel wheel crack around the seems and i noticed the aluminum wheels look thicker than the steel ones. i was wondering if you guys had any info on their durability when it comes to the flex. i try not to make hard fast turns with my trailer as i know it’s bad for the wheels to flex. my question is would the aluminum ones handle this stress better than the steel wheels? we generally have been carrying around 11k and i’m looking to beefing up my suspension and tires to carry around 13-14?
asked by: Jesse
Expert Reply:
Aluminum trailer tires typically have a really nice seal but they also are not normally rated for as high a weight capacity on an 8 bolt wheel. They are a softer metal so they do tend to be more durable when it comes to flex. My recommendation is the Aluminum Bobcat Trailer Wheel - 16" x 6" Rim - 8 on 6-1/2 - Black # LHSO513B which are rated for up to 3,960 lbs each and come with a 1 year warranty but 2 years of complimentary roadside assistance.
These will be nice light and durable wheels for your hotshot business. You may want to consider the Wheel Lock Set for 1/2" Wheel Bolts (2 Locks, 1 Key) # RG01-150 if you have 1/2 inch lugs. You may also want to use the Americana Trailer Wheel Center Cap - Stainless Steel - 4.88" to 4.90" Pilot # AM90156C to finish the look.
Products Referenced in This Question
Americana Trailer Wheel Center Cap - Stainless Steel - 4.88" to 4.90" Pilot
- Wheel Covers Hubcaps
- Center Wheel Caps
- Front and Rear Wheels
- 4.88 Pilot Diameter
- 4.90 Pilot Diameter
- 8 Lugs
- 16 Inch Wheels
- Stainless Steel
- Americana
more information >
Aluminum Bobcat Trailer Wheel - 16" x 6" Rim - 8 on 6-1/2 - Glossy Black
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Wheel Only
- 16 Inch
- 8 on 6-1/2 Inch
- Aluminum Wheels
- Boat Trailer Wheels
- Lionshead
more information >
Wheel Lock Set for 1/2" Wheel Bolts (2 Locks, 1 Key)
- Wheel Locks
- Trailer
- Vehicle
- Redline
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Karrier ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 13" Aluminum Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR D - Black
- Trailer Tires and Wheels
- Tire with Wheel
- Radial Tire
- Load Range D
- 175/80-13
- 13 Inch
- 5 on 4-1/2 Inch
- Aluminum Wheels
- Boat Trailer Wheels
- Kenda
more information >
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