Replacement Tire/Wheel Combo Recommendation for 20.5x8x10 Tires on 1991 Coleman Shenandoah

Question:

Hi, I have a 1991 Coleman Shenendoah, part of the Americana series. The base vehicle weight is 1440 lbs, base axle weight is 1325. Tire size is 20.5x8x10, with a 5 bolt hub pattern. We would like to upgrade the tires, and wheels if we need to gain a little more ground clearance. Can you tell us what size tire and wheel we can use? the original manual says you can put on different tires, but not what kind. Thanks and best regards

asked by: Shaun S

Expert Reply:

Your current 20.5x8x10 size tire is equivalent to the current tire size of 205/65-10 which has an overall diameter of 20.5" and a rim width of 6". Since your wheel has a 5-bolt pattern it should be the 5 on 4-1/2" bolt pattern which is the most common.

I took a look at the specs for your 1991 Coleman Shenandoah and it looks like this pop-up camper came with a 2,000 lb axle. With that being said, I recommend going with the Kenda S-Trail ST145R12 Radial Trailer Tire with 12" Galvanized Spoke Wheel # AM31202 as an upgrade. The tire is a radial (best for highway use) and has a load range of D (1,220 lbs at 65 psi). The Galvanized wheel is corrosion resistant. For even more corrosion resistance, you could buy this same tire # AM10130 and an aluminum wheel # LH45FR, since aluminum won't rust. These would need mounted once you get them. The overall diameter of either of these setups is only 21.3" though so you are only increasing your ride height by about 1/2".

If you are wanting to raise your trailer height much more than that you will need to swap out your hangers (see attached selection) for taller ones. To do this you will need to have a professional welder cut off the current hangers on your pop up camper and then weld on taller hangers.

expert reply by: Jon G