205/75-15 Tire Rubbing Sidewall on Vintage Trailer

Question:

Restored a vintage 1948 canned ham trailer. Im getting a bit if inside sidewall rub on both sides. I think mainly while going through bumps, dips, curbs/gutters etc. and not necessarily while traveling down the road/interstate. I replaced the tires with the same size that was on when I got it, 205-75/15. Would stiffer leaf springs help? Should I go with a narrow tire? I was thinking 205-70/15, but its shorter with the same width. Whats the next size tire that is narrower? Will I need to go with a narrower wheel/rim as well, currently running 15x6?? Thanks for your time and help!!

asked by: Wayne

Expert Reply:

Cool little resto job you did there, thanks for the photo. Regarding the tire rubbing, stiffer leaf springs won't remedy the issue, and the best option is a narrower tire. It will be shorter as well, and you'll have to go with a 13 inch wheel and 175/80-13 as there isn't a narrower 14 inch option.

A 205/75-15 tire is 27.1" in diameter and 8.1" wide while a 175/80-13 is 24" in diameter and 6.9" wide, so you'll lose about 1-1/2" in height but gain the inner clearance you need. Just keep in mind the load range is going to be slightly less with the smaller tire at 1,650 lbs for a load range D so you'll want to be sure that's okay for your weight.

You also need to be sure of your wheel bolt pattern to get the right replacement, it should be either 5 on 4-1/2" or 4 on 4". If you aren't sure of your bolt pattern I've added a link below to a printable template. There is a 5 on 4-1/2" wheel/tire combo, but if your bolt pattern is 4 on 4" you'll have to get them separate and have the tire mounted on the wheel. Here is what you can use:

- 5 on 4-1/2" Bolt Pattern: Karrier ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire with 13" White Wheel # AM31985

- 4 on 4" Bolt Pattern: Karrier ST175/80R13 Radial Trailer Tire # AM10210 & Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel # AM20222DX

If you have a 4-bolt pattern you'll also need Valve Stem # AM20903 (you won't need it if you have a 5-bolt pattern as it also comes with the valve stem).