Smaller tires on same wheels

[tedshelleykacie]

Howdy all,

We need to replace our tires due to excessive cracking and since we bought the trailer used we have no idea just how old the tires are.

So here's the question, we currently have Maxxis ST185/80D13 and would like to go to Greenball ST175/80R13 that I can get from Costsco. So can I do this on the same wheels? Greenball doesn't have an ST185

Yes, I know that we lose some weight capacity by going with the smaller tires but we are not even close to the loaded capacities (yes we have been to the scales). And I know I shouldn't go cheap on tires because of how important they are. But from things I'm reading Greenball Radials are pretty good.

Any input for or against is appreciated. I value the honesty and the opinions of this forum and that is what makes it a great forum.

Thanks, Ted

[Rustic Eagle]

This "Tire Size Calculator" link will give you little more specific data on comparing the two different tire sizes.... just plug in your numbers:

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/tir...5r16-265-75r16

I haven't heard of the Greenball brand so can't comment on them, but dropping a size is personal preference as long as you are comfortable with the load rating differences.

May be worth confirming if you loose any sidewall strength in downsizing, because the TT sidewall takes a lot of abuse in TV turns even when not towing heavy.

Bob

[tedshelleykacie]

Well, just ordered new wheel/tire combos from etrailer.com this evening with the original size tires and wheels Looked on the side of the tires and found the date code of 1305 on three of them and 1005 on the fourth telling me they may have been the originals to the trailer. Wow, did we get lucky we didn't have any issues. I plan to use the old wheels/tires for winter storage and hopefully this will help the new tires last longer. Ended up with Loadstar St185/80d13 Tire W/white Wheel. Looking forward to getting them and getting them installed.

[Rustic Eagle]

Sounds like a nice rim/tire replacement package. May want to get them balanced before putting them on.

Bob

[tedshelleykacie]

Already planned to do the balance. etrailer.com recommends it prior to use. I have the have the bearings packed and sealed so was going the have tires balanced at the same time. Thanks agains for the responses. Ted