Larger Trailer Wheels and abnormal wear

[Johnshan1]

Hi everyone, my trailer uses 4.80x8 trailer wheels which I have run for 4 years now, every year I need to replace one of these tires due to inside tread wear, each time on the same side.<br /><br />Whats causing this? Air pressure is correct and bearings have been serviced.<br /><br /><br />Second, I just bought 2 new larger 5.30x8 (I think thats the model anyways, next size up from 4.80x8) trailer tires which fit just fine but since they are wider rub on the inside/back of the tire towards the springs. <br /><br />Can I just use spacers on the lugs to bring the tire out about a 1/4"? I have plenty of stud and everything else would then have plenty of room. My boat weighs in at about 1000 lbs so these larger tires would sure help out a lot, and reduce wear on bearings.<br /><br />Please advise!! Thanks<br />-John

 

[DJ]

Re: Larger Trailer Wheels and abnormal wear

The spacers should work if they are all the same thickness. Otherwise, you will get a wheel wobble.<br /><br />The inside tread wear is due to either a bent or misaligned axle.<br /><br />Did you look into 12" wheels and tires. The are not as wide as the ones you just installed, yet are capable of heavier loads and do not spin as fast-less wear.

 

[snowshoe]

Re: Larger Trailer Wheels and abnormal wear

I would measure the distance from the center of the hitch to the front edge of the axle at the spring shackle. It is possible that the axle has moved/ or was not installed square from the factory. This situtation developed on my brother-in-laws trailer carrying a 14' Starcraft Alum boat. Several tires later we measured the axle distances and re-aligned the axle. No more tire wear problems.

 

[Johnshan1]

Re: Larger Trailer Wheels and abnormal wear

Thank you guys so much, I will measure the distances and compare, my friends who have been behind the trailer when towing all tell me the trailer looks like its going down the road crooked, so I bet the axle has shifted or is out of alignment.<br /><br />I looked into 12" tires but the overall outside diam. is too great, I can only fit an 18.25" wheel on there (5.70x8) and I cant seem to find a 12" wheel that allows that kind of diameter. So I guess spacers it is <br /><br />Thanks guys keep the comments comming for more ideas. <br /><br />-John