Can Tire Size Be Increased with 3 Inches of Wheel to Fender Clearance

Question:

My trailer has ST175/80R13 and has three inches between the top of the tire and the fender. I want to upgrade to a much better tire than I have that can carry a heavier load along with better tread. I would prefer to get bigger tires to accomplish this. Im thinking of TA43RR Provider ST205/75R14. This would give me a two-inch gap below my fender. While this is not ideal, my camper is a hybrid that is only 15ft long and therefore doesnt weigh much. If this option is not possible, what is the best tire that you would recommend that would work for my RV?

asked by: Ricky S

Expert Reply:

I'd say that 3 inches is the absolute minimum clearance you'd want to see between the top of the trailer tire and the underside of a fender when the trailer is loaded as it typically would be. If you go any larger in tire size, there's a real danger that the tires or the trailer itself could be damaged if the tire rubs too much on the fender. This could lead to an eventual blowout which is extremely dangerous if it occurs at highway speed. Your best bet would be to get the same tire size, 175/80-13 but in the highest load range available for that size. A load range D tire would be rated at 1610 lbs per tire/3220 lbs per axle.

The # TA43RR tire you looked at previously is mounted on a white spoked wheel with a 5 lug on 4-1/2 inch bolt circle. If that's the type of wheel you were needing, I'd recommend the ST175/80R13 Load Range D Tire/Wheel # AM31985. If you wanted a different bolt pattern or style of wheel, let me know and I'd be happy to make some recommendations.

Keep in mind that upgrading the load carrying capacity of the tires won't increase the load bearing capability of the trailer. You'll still be limited to the GVWR listed on the trailer's ID plate.

I'll link you to our series of help articles about trailer tires and wheels that will make you the smartest kid in school when it comes to trailer tires.

expert reply by: Mike L