How Much Room is Needed to Change From 12 Inch Tires to 13 Inch Tires on Shorelander Double Trailer

Question:

I have heard that 13inch tires are better for overall trailering. The tires dont overheat as easily, etc. I like the trailer I have now. However, it has 12inch rims. I would like to replace them with 13inch rims. Can you tell me if it is possible? The trailer is a Shorlander double. If I understand things correctly, I think I can make the change. Inside clearance from tire to frame is 3 Clearance from tire top to fender is 3 Current tire size is 4.80-12

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

In order to change out your tires from 12 inch rims to 13 inch rims you will want to re-measure your available space - it is way too close.

Your 4.80-12 tires have an overall dimension of 20.5 inches and moving to a 13 inch rim has an overall diameter of 24.1 inches which makes your needed space from the top of your tire to the fender 3.6 inches so, as of right now, you are just short.

Your width will not be as much of an issue because you are currently sitting at a 4 inch width and will moving, at the most, to a 5-1/2 inch width, so, again, it is close, but it will leave you 1-1/2 inches of clearance.

I have attached a FAQ article covering trailer tire sizing.

Another available option would be using the Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 # AM10140. This is a radial tire which will run cooler and because it is a 12 you will not have any clearance issues.

expert reply by: Lori W