Recommendation to Replace 20.5x8-10 Tires on Trailer

Question:

Looking for correct 2 tires and rims tire shows 20.5x8-10 if possible would like a little more height. If not thats ok too hopefully Im sending picture ok and not my whole file

asked by: Kathy S

Expert Reply:

The modern equivalent to your existing 20.5x8-10 size tires is a 205/65-10 like the excellent Kenda Trailer Tire with 10" White Wheel # AM3H460. This will really be a direct replacement and it features the same diameter/height of 20-1/2 inches as your current set.

This particular tire and wheel combo has a maximum load of 1,650 pounds at 90 psi and the white steel wheel features the needed 4 on 4 bolt pattern to match your hubs (based on the picture you attached).

The next largest tire we have available in terms of diameter/height is going to be a 5.30-12 size tire that will also require a larger wheel. For this the Kenda # AM30780 might work well but it does have a smaller load capacity of 1,045 pounds at 80 psi which you will need to make sure is still sufficient for the trailer's loaded weight (2 tires would give you a combined capacity of 2,090 pounds). This tire would be about 1-1/2 inches taller but would be smaller in width by almost 2-1/2 inches.

Keep in mind too that only half of the height increase (3/4 inch) would actually affect the trailer's ride height since half of this measurement will be above the axle.

If you are looking to raise the trailer a better option is to use an Over Under Conversion Kit to move the leaf springs above the axle (if they aren't already). If you have a 2-3/8 inch round axle you can use part # K71-384-00 or if you have a 3 inch round axle you can use part # K71-385-00. This will lift the trailer by the height of the axle and leaf spring stack.