Recommended 12" Boat Trailer Tires For A 2,800 Mile Round Trip

Question:

Trailer tire question. Boat trailer, single axle, boat weighs 1500 lbs or less. Current tire size 4.80 X 12. Will tow from Vermont to Florida, round trip 2800 miles. What tire will do the job. Bias or radial, load range, speed rating, ect? thanks

asked by: Leigh D

Expert Reply:

The Kenda Loadstar 4.80-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12" Galvanized Wheel # AM30670 will have a load range of 990 pounds at 90 psi and will have a 65 mph speed. Bias tires will also run pretty hot at highway speeds and distances, which can and will lower their life expectancy. This will still work fine, but it is something to be aware of.

With that being said, I do have another option available for you. Especially if your current wheels are still looking good. The Taskmaster 4.80R12 Radial Trailer Tire # TT48012C will carry the same 990 pounds at 90 psi load rating, but will also have an M speed rating, or 81 mph. This also being a radial tire will make it much better suited for long distance highway use. This is the way I would go if I were to be traveling these kinds of distances.

As a side note, if your wheels aren't looking too hot, we do also have the Americana Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel - Galvanized # AM20134 that will pair with these. We do not currently have a way to mount tires and wheels though, so you will need to find a local tire shop that can get these mated together.

expert reply by: Lazer S