This article will assist you to pick the correct wheels for your trailer. To clarify, the word wheels mean both the rim + tyre. This article is designed to those who have no prior knowledge of the subject.
The situations this article addresses will assist with
Second-hand trailers have been purchased by people who are looking for a bargain.
The owners of an unroadworthy trailer. roadworthy
GVM Upgrade
Upgraded wheel and tyre size for off-road use
This article will help you assess your trailer and choose wheels to match.
Step 1: How to determine the proper size of the wheel
This is not an uncomplicated concept since people are used to talking about wheels for their cars.
Of of course, trailers are a distinct vehicle and do not perform in the same way as a car does, plus they don’t come with an account book that outlines the right size to purchase.
It is possible to accommodate all sizes, for instance, a trailer that uses 14″ wheels is likely to fit 13″ wheels. However, you might be able to fit 14″ wheels on the trailer that is designed to accommodate 13″ wheels, but when you load the trailer, the mudguard may press against the tyre which can compromise safety because of the damage to the tyre.
It is important to select the size that is optimal for you, i.e. with a wheel size that will keep the trailer level. The trailer won’t be able to ride flat in the event that the wheels are either too large or too small.
The law in force today requires the tyre compliance sticker is placed on the left-hand side of the of the mudguard (Kerbside). The sticker should contain details about the correct dimensions of your wheels, as well as the correct pressure for your tyres.
If there is no information on compliance, we recommend measuring the circumference of the existing wheel and the way it will fit within the mudguard.
It is possible for trailer manufacturers to alter mudguards in order to make room for larger wheels. This is what we do when performing an GVM upgrade.
Step 2. How to select the correct stud pattern
Different models and manufacturers come with various stud/bolt designs. The hubs are the place that you connect the wheels.
Our clients also have the option of choosing from a variety of stud patterns for trailer manufacturers.
The process of identifying the stud pattern is quite simple.
Two primary measurements are used to establish the stud pattern on your wheels.
Visit TrailerTek for more details on trailer PCD wheel tyre assembly.
The number of bolts used. You can find out this by taking a look at the hub of the wheel. The majority of hubs and wheels make use of 4, 5 or 6 studs.
The Pitch Circle Diameter (PCD) is a measurement that is taken from one stud in the hub’s center to the opposing stud. It is difficult to measure this measurement because the hub centre sticks out further than the studs. This makes accurate measurements without the right tools challenging. Create a circle around all the bolts on the wheel , then determine the diameter.
So, you would say eg.I’m looking for a 4 stud wheel that has a 120mm PCD, or similar.
It is also possible to replace your hubs. This is the most efficient way when doing your bearings.
Step 3 – Understanding wheel and rating of tyres
Your trailer will be equipped with the GVM rating (weight + carrying capacity). For instance, the majority of small trailers weigh around 750 kg GVM.
In the above example you’ll need to purchase 2 wheels that weigh 375kg each or more.
Step 4: Making a choice between alloy or galvanized rims
What is the difference between alloy and steel rims?
Aluminum rims are lighter and have the same dimensions.
There’s a little misconception that people “should buy alloy since it offers better rust-proofing than galvanised steel”. This is not true because the majority of alloy wheels are made from marine-grade alloy.
In our experience, alloy wheels (non-marine grade) are more susceptible to corrosion than galvanised steel. This occurs when water becomes stuck between the rim of the wheel and the tyres at the valve and bead. The alloy expands and oxidizes in a way that can create a lot of problems when repair or replacement of punctures or tyres. The bead will not seal due to the corrosion and , consequently, let air pressure out.