Can 5.30-12 Tires be Used on a Trailer with 4.80-12 Tires

Question:

In the previous discussion you mentioned the rim size of 4x12 is the same for 4.80 x 12 and 5.30 x 12. I just purchased as used Viking and it has 4.80x12 on it that have good tread but show signs of dry rot. Im going to replace both running tires and the spare and want to know can I switch from 480 to 530 just to get the few extra pound capacity? Thanks for your help. This eTrailer site has been exceptionally helpful to me.

asked by: Randy H

Expert Reply:

Adding higher capacity tires will not increase the capacity of the trailer. That is set by the axle and the other components, hubs, suspension, tires, and wheels, will match or come very close. You can still go to a different size though as long as there is space all around the existing tires for the larger size.

A 4.80-12 will have a section width of 4.9 inches and diameter of 20.5 inches.
A 5.30-12 tire will have a section width of 5.6 inches and diameter of 21.9 inches.

I have linked our help article on trailer tires for you.

expert reply by: Michael H