This article provides a tutorial on how to select the right wheels for your trailer. To make it clear, wheels refer to both the rim + tyre. This article is written for those who do not have prior knowledge.
Situations this article will help with
Trailers that are second-hand have been bought by those who are looking for a bargain.
Anyone who has acquired a non-roadworthy trailer
GVM Upgrading GVM
The wheel size and wheel size can be upgraded for off-road use
This article describes how to examine your trailer and pick wheels to match.
Step 1 – How to know what size wheel to buy
This is not a difficult concept, since people are used to speaking of wheels for their cars.
Of obviously, trailers are distinct vehicle and don’t function in the same way as a car does, plus they don’t come with a logbook that stipulates the correct size to get.
A trailer with 14 inches wheels can be able to be able to fit on a trailer that has 13 inch wheels. However you may be able to fit 14″ wheels on an axle designed for 13″ wheels, however, when loading the trailer, the mudguard could be pressed against the tyre, which could compromise safety due to the possibility of damage to the tyre.
The most effective size will be the one you pick. by using a wheel size that helps maintain the trailer at a in a steady level. If the wheels are either too large or too small the trailer won’t be able to travel level, which is inefficient.
The law in force today requires a tyre compliance sticker be placed on the left-hand side of the of the mudguard (Kerbside). This should contain information regarding the proper dimensions of your wheels, as well as the correct tyre pressure.
If there is not enough data on compliance, it could be worthwhile to measure the wheel’s diameter and the way it will fit into the mudguard.
The manufacturers of trailers can modify the mudguards to accommodate larger wheels. This is something we do during a GVM upgrade.
Step 2: How to choose the best stud pattern
Different models and manufacturers come with different stud/bolt patterns. The hubs are the place to attach the wheels.
Trailer manufacturers also employ common stud patterns, meaning that our customers are able to choose from a variety of options in terms of wheel choice.
It is easy to identify the pattern of studs.
Two measurements are the most important to determine the stud pattern of your wheels.
What number of bolts are used. You can determine this by inspecting the hub of the wheel. Most hubs and wheel will contain 4, 5 or six studs.
The Pitch Circle Diameter is the distance between one Stud and the hub’s center taken from the stud to the left. It is usually difficult to determine because the centre of the hub extends further than the studs making and precise measurement difficult without the proper tools. Draw a circle with all the bolts on the wheel and determine its diameter.
You would then say, “Eg. I’m looking for a 4 stud that has 120mm PCD” or something along these lines.
It is also possible to replace your hubs. This is the ideal method of replacing your bearings.
Step 3 – Understanding wheel and rating of tyres
GVM (weight + carrying capability) is the number you will use to determine the trailer’s rating. For instance, small trailers typically weigh 750 kg GVM.
In the above example, you’d want to obtain 2 wheels that weigh 375kg each or more.
Did You Know? TrailerTek are experts in trailer PCD wheel tyre assembly.
Step 4: Making a choice between alloy or galvanized rims
What is the different between alloy and steel rims?
Alloy wheels are lighter for the same dimensions.
The most common misconception is that alloy has better rust resistance than galvanized steel. This is a myth since the majority of alloy wheels are made from marine grade alloy.
Our research has shown that alloy wheels (nonmarine grade) corrode faster than galvanised steel. This happens when water gets trapped between the rim and the tyres near the valve and bead. This happens because the alloy expands and oxidizes and can lead to many issues when it comes to replacing tyres or fixing punctures. Due to corrosion, the bead will not close and leaks air pressure.
