Options For Upgrading Tires And Wheels On A Karavan 5 x 8 Utility Trailer

Question:

Trailer wheel and tire upgrade suggestion? Hi, i recently got a new KARAVAN 5*8 utility trailer link down below, from our local tractor supply shop. the only thing i really dont like is its wheel and tire. The OEM one is 4.8 X 12C. I wonder if you have any suggestion to upgrade this OEM wheel and tires, for long distance travel? I dont know if it is okay i can replace the oem ones with 13 inch ones. Thank you!

asked by: Felix D

Expert Reply:

It may be possible to upgrade the 4.80-12 tires on your Karavan trailer. The main factor we need to consider is the clearance between the tire and the fender, as well as the clearance between the inside of the tire and the trailer frame. Our rule of thumb is that we want at least 3" between the tire and the fender, and at least 1" between the tire and the trailer frame. Based on the pictures I can see online, it looks like clearance will be an issue with your trailer, but you can always take a few quick measurements to see what kind of space you are working with.

The 4.80-12 tires are about 20.7" in diameter and 4.9" wide. The next size up would be a 5.30-12 which is about 21.5" in diameter and 5.3" wide.

If we go up to a 13" wheel it would be a pretty big jump in size. For example the 175/80-13 tires are 24.1" in diameter and 7" wide. Most trailers would not have adequate clearance for this kind of upgrade, without some degree of modification.

That being said, we do offer some 4.80-12 tires/wheels are rated for highway use (65 mph). For that I recommend the # AM30670 which is a 5 lug wheel.

expert reply by: Jesse M