Solution for Replacing 14 inch Trailer Wheels with 15 inch for Higher Weight Capacity

Question:

Im a contractor in MT and operate a construction business out of a 7x14foot 2012 Wells Cargo trailer on tandem 3.5k Dexter axles 7k rating. The weight of my trailer loaded for working is 6900-7200lbs. I have had 3 tires new! blow out in the past 4 months. Im guessing because the trailer is overloaded for the 8-ply 205/75r14 set up. I cant get higher ply tires in R14 size, so Ive installed the Dexter over/under axle conversion kit for 2 3/8inch tubes thinking to get more clearance to put R15s with 225/75 in a 10-ply. However, Im having issues finding those wheels for a 5 bolt 4.5inch hub. Now Im thinking that my best option is to get a whole tandem 5k 10k rating axle set with 225/75r15s and everything and having a local fab shop to the swap. Do you guys have that for my trailer? **Note that Im sure the bolt pattern is 4.5inch not 4.25. Also wrote rough measurements on the pictures to research clearance issues with 225/75r15s.

asked by: Terrence P

Expert Reply:

Probably your simplest solution would be to replace your hub/drums on your Dexter 3,500 axle with ones that have a 6 on 5-1/2 inch bolt pattern like the part # 84656UC3-EZ which you'll have a much easier time finding higher capacity wheel and tire options for like with the # LHAW124 which has a tire size of ST225/75R15 and a weight capacity of 2,830-lb max load at 80 psi and comes with 1 year roadside warranty.

expert reply by: Jameson C