Newbie question on trailer wheel size

[glastron86]

I have an 86 Glastron Conroy 18.5 ft with a Glastron trailer. I am trying to find out if the wheels to the trailer would be Ford or Chevy wheels, or is it just a generic 15" wheel? I do know they are 15 x 7 painted welded wheels. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[guy74]

Re: Newbie question on trailer wheel size

Odds are they are 5 bolt on 4 1/2" spacing. Common trailer wheel, also found on fullsize ford cars from the 80s and 90s. I have wheels off a 89 lincoln towncar on my trailer.

 

[glastron86]

Re: Newbie question on trailer wheel size

Thanks for the help! I have a friend that has some used aluminum wheels that he would give me if they would fit, but I didn't want to go to the trouble to check it out if there wasn't a very good chance for them to fit.

 

[Blue Water Runner]

Re: Newbie question on trailer wheel size

5x4.5 wheels are found on Aerostar vans, Rangers and Explorers.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Newbie question on trailer wheel size

Most automotive rear wheel drive cars have wheels with the hub spaced closer to the back of the wheel. Trailer wheels have zero offset meaning the hub is in the center of the tire tread. Using a car wheel places the center of the tire tread farther out from the center line between the two bearings. In fact it places it closer to the smaller diameter outer bearing. If the trailer is not heavily loaded this will not be a problem. If the axle is loaded close to its limit it can be a problem because it unloads the big bearing and increases the forces on the smaller one. Sounds petty I know. But I also know it can be a problem. That offset can also cause the outside surface of the tire to contact the lip on the fender if there is not enough clearance. If using late model auto rims, make sure you use the proper lug nuts as the taper may not be the same between the wheel and the lug nuts from the trailer.

 

[glastron86]

Re: Newbie question on trailer wheel size

Awesome responses! I asked him about the offset and he said that they do have a noticeable amount, though he hadn't measured it. I believe that I will just sandblast the wheels that came on the trailer, at the same time that I am sandblasting the trailer, and repaint and use them. Thanks for all the help!