Could I use a car Radial and Rim as a trailer spare?

[shade788]

Hey all,<br /><br />This may sound like a dumb question but I have a Load-Rite Trailer with tire size E78-14 or ST195 75 14.<br /><br />I happen to have a Car Radial and Rim laying around from my old car that is 195 75 14<br /><br />Could I use this in a pinch for a short trip as a spare? I need to go on a trip and don't have spare at the moment.<br /><br />Thanks,<br />

 

[marty_scher]

Re: Could I use a car Radial and Rim as a trailer spare?

IMO, I would not hesitate to use it as a spare, especially for a short trip.<br /><br />Mixing a bias ply with a radial, is usually not recommended, but should ride OK, with reasonable speed and distance.<br /><br />Just make sure the bolt holes match up <br /><br />Just my 2 cents.

 

[Basenjib123]

Re: Could I use a car Radial and Rim as a trailer spare?

No worries there. Heck, I have been running car radials on my trailer for years. Only time I would consider "trailer tires" would be on ramps that have potential to cause sidewall damage. Re-enforced sidewalls are the only significant difference between trailer tires and car tires. Of course, the people that sell trailer tires dont want you to know that! Good Luck.

 

[shade788]

Re: Could I use a car Radial and Rim as a trailer spare?

How would you measure the lug holes to make sure it will fit other than taking the tire off and putting the other one on?<br /><br />The trailer rim seems to be backwards compared to the car rim. Do I have to turn the car rim around when putting it on? So the indentation is on the outside like the trailer tire? <br /><br />Thanks again,

 

[marty_scher]

Re: Could I use a car Radial and Rim as a trailer spare?

I would suggest doing a quick dry run change.<br /><br />If it does not fit while in your driveway, it surely will not fit on some dark road.<br /><br />Good luck

 

[Ranger354]

Re: Could I use a car Radial and Rim as a trailer spare?

Chevy Vega 4 bolt rims used to fit my old Jon boat trailer. I made many trips with one for a spare. I only had to use it once but I was darn glad I had it. I had to turn it around backwards so it would fit and take the fender off also. But it fit! Guess I could have gone to Wal-Mart and buy one that fit better, but we didn't have them on every corner like we do now.<br /><br />Ditto on the dry run in the drive way. You can take this time to grease hubs and lug nuts too!