12 inch Trailer Wheel and Tire with Higher Speed Rating

Question:

Hello, I have a jet ski trailer that I have converted to a utility trailer. It has 3 leaf springs and 8” tires. My plan is to upgrade both. Springs are shot. I plan to go from a 3 leaf to a 4 leaf spring. I believe i have a 2,000 pound axle and cant tell as the axle is so rusted over. I would love to go to a 15 inch tire but posts i have seen on your site say because of the axle i am restricted to upgrading to a 12” tire. I have a 4 lug axle now. Where i am going with this is i want to drive at 70 MPH. Typocally hauling house goods for kids houses. Last question, use bias or radial tires..

asked by: Jeff

Expert Reply:

I suggest moving to a radial tire for your highway application. We have a 12 inch trailer tire that has an 81 mph speed rating with the # TT48012C. This has a tire size of 4.80-12 and would fit and work well for you, except it is not mounted on a wheel. Normally I would recommend a tire and wheel combination but since you need the higher speed you will need to purchase the tire and wheel separately. There are many 12 inch styles and colors of wheels with the 4 on 4 bolt pattern for you to choose. A popular choice is the Dexstar Steel Mini Mod Trailer Wheel - 12" x 4" Rim - 4 on 4 - White Powder Coat # AM20140 . Once your tires and wheels arrive, you can easily have them mounted at a local shop.

We have a 4-leaf spring for a 2k rated axle like you said you have a part # e77SR which is 26 inches long in length. You might verify that this is the correct length and capacity that your trailer would need.

expert reply by: Jameson C