Different size tires?

[fredsmith99]

I know all the theories, but what would be the liability in running a 205/70-14 on one side and 195/70-14 on the other. There would be a slight difference in diameter and overall height. Will this actually cause any problem? I cannot imagine the friction/drag difference would produce any signifigant issues. Does anyone have experience with a situation like this? thanks

 

[Bill3434]

Re: Different size tires?

Turning and braking. THe 195 would be carrying more load per square inch than the 205, whether you would notice or not who knows. The side with the 195 would be turning slightly more than the 205 so there would be different wear patterns on axle and bearings, you probably wouldn't notice

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Different size tires?

Conventional wisdom would say: Don't do it! and it is not recommended for autos--in fact I think here in PA, both tires on the same automobile axle must be the same size otherwise the car fails inspection. Auto spares though, are almost universally the small space saver tires and although claimed only good for 50 miles or so at less than 50 MPH, they are still accepted equipment.

HOWEVER: 10 cm is only about 1/2 inch difference in cross section and probably about the same in diameter. (roughly 25.4 cm=1 inch). There is no differential on a boat trailer axle so no gears to be constantly turning--I doubt that you would get into trouble as long as the load rating was enough to carry the expected weight..

In fact, I just replaced my 4.80 X 8 tires. The old ones were cracking and were two different brands---LO---To my surprise The two different brands were about 1 inch different diameter. No wonder the trailer looked crooked.