Can I Put Bigger Tires On My Travel Trailer?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,

A larger tire will turn slower and transmit less torque. In practical terms, smaller tires net you higher engine rpm at a given speed, but more towing power; larger ones drop engine rpm and towing power .

What size tires fit my travel trailer?

Older Size Tire Size Rim Width – 5.70-8 3-3/4 inch 16.5 x 6.5 – 8 165/65-8 5-3/8 inch 18.5 x 8.5 – 8 215/60-8 7 inch – 6.90/6.00-9 4-1/2 inch

Does wheel size matter on a trailer?

You’ll need to ensure they match the trailer hub. A larger rim and tyre size may actually place more stress on the axles and springs . If you replace the existing wheels with larger ones, the trailer might not sit level with your car, putting stress on the towball.

Why are RV tires so small?

RVs have small tires because a smaller tire means less intrusion into the undercarriage space and wheel wells (=more space for you inside). Because of this, the RV retains more stability as well. Another reason these tires are so small is likely due to manufacturers cutting costs by using smaller tires during assembly.

Why are trailer tires so small?

They’re designed for trailer wheels, typically narrower than those on a car, and have shallower treads so they wiggle less to help improve your tow vehicle’s fuel economy and run cooler .

Is a heavier truck better for towing?

Also know that the heavier your truck is, the less you can actually tow , technically speaking. This is because a heavier truck is already using up some of its gross combined weight (GCW).

Are 20 tires better for towing?

The fact that some of you can “feel” no difference with the 20′′ wheels is irrelevant . The temperature of the tire and the stresses will cause blowouts which in a towing or heavy payload situation can be fatal.

Do bigger tires affect torque?

Torque doesn’t change with tire size , it’s the acceleration that increases with smaller tires due to shorter distance from the center of the rotation which results in increased force to produce the same torque and hence increased acceleration (F=ma).

Can I put bigger tires on my Harbor Freight trailer?

Yes, you can easily upgrade to 12′′ wheels on these -they run about $50-60 for a complete tire and wheel, and they may fit under the fenders, you may have to move the fenders a bit for clearance. There were 4 and 5 bolt hubs on these trailers, just know which one you need.

Can you put small tires on trailer?

Yes, you are able to put a smaller tire on the trailer to lower it , however there are a few things that you want to consider when choosing a smaller tire. According to my research the standard tires that are on your trailer are ST175/80R 13LRC tires with a 1360 pound capacity.

Why do travel trailers have small wheels?

Probably the biggest reason they are smaller is that it costs the mfgr less to use small tires . The second reason could be that with smaller diameter tires there is a smaller intrusion into the space inside of the trailer (wheel wells). Reducing “unsprung weight” which helps with stability.

Do RVs need special tires?

RVs can come in many different shapes and sizes. Obviously, a camper trailer and a camper van will use a different kind of tire most times. Similarly, big rig motorhomes also need a specific tire to handle the immense weight .

Can I use LT tires on my travel trailer?

Yes, both special trailer (ST) and light truck (LT) tires can be used on a 5th wheel trailer . They are actually the only two types of tires rated for this use. The reason for this is that tires on a trailer will be subjected to much harsher conditions that require a stiffer sidewall.

Are all travel trailer tires the same size?

Size Matters

There are multiple different types of RV’s, and there are multiple different types of tires that each of those RV’s may use, so in the case of RV tires: size DOES matter ! camper, RV truck tires are going to be different than motorhome tires.

How long are travel trailer tires good for?

Each tire manufacturer will likely have different recommendations on the service life of a particular type of tire, but statistics suggest the average life of a trailer tire is about five years under normal use and maintenance conditions, and that tire replacement should be considered after three years , even if the ...

What causes trailer tires to explode?

Improper tire inflation – When a truck’s tires are over-inflated or under-inflated, they are not safe. An over-inflated tire puts too much pressure on the tire itself and can bring it to the point of exploding. An under-inflated tire can explode when heat fills the empty space inside and causes the air to expand.

How often should you change RV tires?

The common rule of thumb for changing your RV tires is anywhere between three and six years . If you are on the road often, and you think your tires need to be changed, then it may not be possible to last as long as six years.

Should RV trailer tires rotate?

Trailers, just like vehicles, need their tires rotated too. To avoid mechanical problems both minor and major, it is recommended that you rotate your trailer tires .

Can you put a tube in a trailer tire?

Expert Reply: When you use a tube with a tubeless tire it will cause the tires to generate excessive heat. And heat is the number one enemy of tires. Based on this it is not recommended .

Can you mix radial and bias tires on a trailer?

It is important to never mix bias and radial tires on the same trailer . Likewise, tires should be of the same size and load rating on all axles and inflation should be checked before each outing.

What does 7000 GVWR mean on a trailer?

For example, let’s say the GVWR for your vehicle is 7,000 pounds. The curb weight is 5,000 pounds. That means any load you haul would have to be less than 2,000 pounds (as you would have to account for the weight of fuel and passengers).

What size truck do you need to pull a 10000 pound trailer?

A half-ton truck with a max payload setup should be able to tow a 10,000-pound trailer. While a 3/4-ton truck will have no problems towing a 10,000-pound trailer, most half-ton trucks will be capable of towing this weight because they are equipped for heavy payloads.

What happens if you tow more than recommended?

Exceeding the recommended towing capacity causes the transmission to work harder than it’s meant to, which creates more heat energy . This heat breaks down the transmission fluid that lubricates the transmission’s moving parts. Without proper lubrication, the transmission can seize up and cause major damage.

Do wider tires help with towing?

Wider tires place more stress on the suspension and are more likely to throw damaging road debris on your truck and trailer . Stay near stock width for towing. Heavier aftermarket tires and wheels reduce your available payload, so you cannot tow as big or heavy trailer and remain within specifications for your vehicle.

Can you put 20 tires on 18 rims?

The wheel size will not affect your speedometer, the overall tire size will. As long as the overall tire diameter is the same, you won’t have to re calibrate anything. If you use the factory size tires for the 18′′ wheels, you should be fine .

Why do 20 tires cost more?

Ignoring any variation of perception of the cosmetics..... the 20′′ rims mount tires that are more expensive and have less sidewall . The less sidewall provides less flex and a harsher ride.

Amira Khan
Author
Amira Khan
Amira Khan is a philosopher and scholar of religion with a Ph.D. in philosophy and theology. Amira's expertise includes the history of philosophy and religion, ethics, and the philosophy of science. She is passionate about helping readers navigate complex philosophical and religious concepts in a clear and accessible way.