How to Determine if Replacing 5.70-8 Tires and Wheels with 5.30-12 on a Camper Trailer is Possible

Question:

I have a 1999 Dutchman Flipper 800E pop-up tent trailer that I am converting to a large model airplane hauler. I have removed about 175 pounds of weight in the fold-out beds, dining table, canvas, cushions and some cabinetry. Maximum carried load will approximate the removed items for a weight of 996 lbs vehicle weight. I am thinking of replacing the existing 5.70-8 tires and wheels with your Kenda 5.30-12 Bias Trailer Tire with 12inch White Wheel - 4 on 4 - Load Range B Code: AM30700, for a smoother ride. Is this thinking correct? The trailer brochure states that 12inch wheels are an option, and there appears to be sufficient room in the wheel wells for the upgrade. I am hoping that the larger, lower pressure tires will be less bouncy. Thanks.

asked by: Wade W

Expert Reply:

Your current wheel and tire size has an overall diameter of 18.1 inches. The size you are looking at, 5.30-12, has a diameter of 21.9 inches. If you have the room for the additional tire size and you get the correct wheel bolt pattern then what you are looking to do should work well.

The taller tire should smooth out the ride a bit.

The Kenda 5.30-12 Wheel and Tire # AM30700 that you referenced has a bolt pattern of 4 on 4. If you are unsure of the bolt pattern of your current wheels I attached an FAQ on how to determine this.

expert reply by: Jameson C