Upgrading trailer wheel size?

Flboater68

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Joined
May 19, 2017
Messages
1
I've got a 1981 DAHL trailer that has 4.80 -12 inch tires 4 bolt pattern on it now there is room between the top of existing tire and bottom of fender does anyone recommend a different size to go a little bigger?
thanks in advanced for any advice or suggestions
 

Alumarine

Captain
Joined
Feb 22, 2005
Messages
3,757
While there is room now will there be room when the trailer is fully loaded and going over bumps?
If the axle has springs then the wheel will move up and down in relation to the fender.
 

Leardriver

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Oct 7, 2008
Messages
382
Even a 5:30 X 12 has a load capacity of a couple of hundred more pounds.
 

gm280

Supreme Mariner
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Jun 26, 2011
Messages
14,605
I actually went from 12" 4 bolt wheels and tires to 13" 5 bolt wheels and tires. But I also installed new fenders and a lot of other things as well. And it all worked for me. But you really need to check everything over well to make certain everything would fit and clear. You can see my trailer rebuild be clicking on the trailer rebuilt below if you can to see it.
 

ahicks

Captain
Joined
Sep 16, 2013
Messages
3,957
Unless you're concerned about the weight carrying ability of the 4.80's, there's really no good reason to go bigger. If you're thinking about reducing tire rotation speed at highway speeds, a bigger tire is just as likely to let go. Both require proper maintenance (including replacement of old tires), and if that's done, chances are slim you'll have any trouble.

That said, I think you can get 13" wheels and tires for that 4 lug hub if you're considering this just 'cuz.
 

roscoe

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Oct 30, 2002
Messages
21,862
I've got a 1981 DAHL trailer that has 4.80 -12 inch tires 4 bolt pattern on it now there is room between the top of existing tire and bottom of fender does anyone recommend a different size to go a little bigger?
thanks in advanced for any advice or suggestions

What are you trying to accomplish?

More weight capacity?
More ground clearance?
Fancy wheels?
Just want to spend some money?
 
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