Can A Torsion Axle Pop Up Trailer Be Lifted to Fit Larger Diameter Trailer Tires

Question:

I have a 1995 starcraft meteor popup camper and buy tires from you guys almost every year! - we use it a lot driving cross country. I love the small size, but it has 5.70-8 tires on a torsion bar axle. Can I spacer blocks between the axle and frame to get more clearance and use bigger tires and rims, like 4.80-12 or ST145R12? Would larger tires last longer? Would it change the towing characteristics?

asked by: Steve

Expert Reply:

You can use spacer blocks to get more ground clearance with torsion axles on trailers. If your axles are Dexter axles there are lift kits available. Typically, people use 2 inch by 3 inch, or 2 inch by 4 inch steel tubing with 3/16 or 1/4 inch wall thickness. This can throw off your trailer geometry as the trailer will now become more top heavy.

You will need a new ball mount as well most likely. You will need one with less of a drop then what you currently have. To determine what rise/drop ball mount you would need check out the FAQ article I attached.

Going to a larger tire will make the ride quality of the trailer a little smoother, and since the tires wouldn't be spinning as fast it would wear at least a little bit slower. Other things that can prolong the life of trailer tires is making sure they are always properly inflated, never overloaded and kept out of the sun as much as possible.

To go to one of the bigger tire sizes you listed you also (as I am sure you know) will need to replace your wheels as well. In order to do that you will need to know the bolt pattern of the current wheels you have. Check out the FAQ I attached on how to determine bolt pattern. Once you know that you will be able to pick out a new wheel and tire combo that will bolt onto your hubs after you lift your trailer.

I attached links to pages that have the tire sizes you listed matched with wheels for you to check out also.

expert reply by: Jameson C