Replacing 4.80-12 Trailer Tires For Better Highway Speeds and Use on a Boat Trailer

Question:

I have a Karavan KBE-1250-46 boat trailer with 4.80-12 tires and would like to replace with a larger tire as we travel on the highway a lot. Just thinking that a larger tire will be better for highway speeds. Thanks

asked by: Doug H

Expert Reply:

Rather than go through the hassle of getting larger wheels and tires and possibly having to modify fenders or trailer height you can change to a Radial Tire # TT48012C. Radial tires perform better than bias ply tires which are more commonly found in the 4.80-12 tire size. This Tire # TT48012C carries an 81mph speed rating and has a weight capacity of 990lbs per tire. The radial design also allows the tires to run cooler and gives less rolling resistance so the tread life is also increased.

Also with staying with the same tire size you will have less issues launching and retrieving your boat due to the increased height of the trailer if you were to switch to taller tires.

expert reply by: Bud M