Can I Use The Same Size 15" Trailer Tires On Trailer Which Uses 13" Tires & 5 on 4-1/2" Bolt Pattern

Question:

I have a trailer with 5x4.5 hubs. It came with 13 inch tires. I want to put 15 inch tires, so I can run same tires on all my trailers. Is there a problem with this idea. I am not wanting to carry more weight per say just want same tires.

asked by: Eric H

Expert Reply:

The biggest issue you may run into is going to be the tire clearance a ST175/80R13 # AM31990 is going to be 7" wide and 24.1" tall. Where a ST205/75R15 # AM32238B is going to be 8.1" wide and 27.3" tall. So you may need to alter your suspension or fenders to use the larger tires. Another issue you may run into depends on the available load ratings for your tires. This particular ST175/80R13 # AM31990 is the heavier load range D rated for 1,650lbs max. The ST205/75R15 # AM32238B is the lighter load range C option rated for 1,820lbs. Depending on what size and load ratings you have there could be a much larger difference which may cause the lighter trailer to bounce more due to the stiffer tire.

expert reply by: Bud M