Will Having Larger Pilot Hole Diameters Matter on New Trailer Wheels

Question:

What is the difference, for light duty trailer holding 15foot alluminum Jon boat. I bought brand new wheels/tires, but center pilot hole is slightly larger..... Lug pattern is same.

asked by: Steve B

Expert Reply:

Having a larger pilot diameter (center hole) on a trailer wheel is only an issue if the wheels are centered onto the axle using the hub (a hub centric wheel). In this case you would need an exact fit. You know you have a hub centric wheel if your trailer uses wheel bolts to attach the wheel instead of lug nuts.

If your trailer is lug centric meaning the wheel is centered on the axle using the lug nuts, then having a larger pilot hole on the wheel is not a problem.

expert reply by: Jameson C