Upgrade Trailer Wheels

[mmcdan]

2007 MC tandem axle trailer with 5-lug 14-inch wheels. I'm considering upgrading to 15-inch wheels to improve tire options and appearance. Any feedback on this change?

Thanks

[bjames]

Just make sure you match up the offsets for the wheels. Also increasing the size will increase the overall diameter unless you go lower profile, then the width with increase. You have to make sure your fenders are wide enough. Also look for tires that are rated for Extra Heavy load (especially the side walls).

[Jerseydave]

Not sure how many TS (trailer service) tires are available in 15" except 225/75R15 and I doubt they will fit without fender interference.
Switching to 225/70R15 would fit but they are not TS tires.
I think you're better off with the stock size, 215/75R14 in Carlisle or Maxxis tires. I run Carlisles with no problems after thousands of miles.

[Miss Rita]

If you get bigger tires and wheels you'll have to back the trailer deeper into the water to load/unload. It will be harder to climb in to the boat when it's on the trailer. It will will also raise the center of gravity, making it more unstable while towing.

I realize that if you only raise the trailer 1/2-1" it's not a big deal, but all the "dynamics" of your trailer will be worse with taller wheels/tires.

When I replaced my tires I went with lower profile just to avoid that problem.

[thatsmrmastercraft]

Originally Posted by mmcdan

2007 MC tandem axle trailer with 5-lug 14-inch wheels. I'm considering upgrading to 15-inch wheels to improve tire options and appearance. Any feedback on this change?

Thanks

Are you running ST205/75R14 now?

For comparison's sake:
ST205/75R14 6 ply is 26.1" tall and 8.1" wide and max load is 1764#.
ST205/75R15 8 ply is 27.1" tall and 8.1" wide and max load is 2150#.

This is an easy swap assuming you have or create the extra 1/2" fender clearance and select the correct wheels. You gain 1544# capacity.