Largest Replacement Tire for 4.80-12 Tire on 5x8 Utility Trailer

Question:

Did an axel flip on my lowes 5x8 2200ib dexter axel tires currently on there are 4-80-12 do you know whats the biggest size i can go up to?

asked by: Jobe H

Expert Reply:

The answer to your question will depend on both the bolt pattern of your current hubs and how much clearance you currently have between the tire and the underside of your fenders.

If you have a 4 on 4 bolt pattern, a 12 inch wheel is as large as you'll be able to go. A 5.30-12 wheel/tire like # TT53012C is 22 inches in diameter, versus 20 inches for the 4.80-12. Going with a 2 inch larger in diameter tire would move the tire 1 inch closer to the underside of the fender. You want to see a minimum of 3-4 inches when the trailer is under load.

If your hubs have a 5 on 4-1/2 inch bolt pattern, you can go up to a 15 inch 205/75-15 tire like # AM10244 which is 27-1/2 inches in diameter, as long as that would leave the proper tire to fender clearance.

expert reply by: Mike L