Hub conversion

[Slow Ride]

Gents,
I purchased a used trailer that has very large axles. I think they are 7200lb axles. The hubs are 8 lugs and I want to go down to 6 or 5 so I can use 15 inch wheels (due to cost) vice 16 inch wheels. Is this possible. The axle has larger bearings on the back side of the wheel and slightly smaller on the front side ( cant remember the size). However, when I went to the trailer shop to look for new bearings, there was only one bearing kit that had that set up so I assume it is a common standard set up. Is there such a thing as 5 or 6 lug hubs that will fit this set up?

 

[roscoe]

Re: Hub conversion

What is the trailer rated for, Gross capacity?

15" tires are available with up to 2500# capacity +/-

16" tires are available up to 3400# capacity

Everything depends on the axles, the capacity, and the setup.

May actually be easier or cheaper to replace the entire axles.

 

[Slow Ride]

Re: Hub conversion

It's in storage. I'll have to drive out there to see for sure the rating. It was originally used to carry a 34 or 38 ft venture center console. I use it for a 31' fountain center console which weighs about 8500. I have considered replacing the axles but I just did it a year ago. At the time I was in a hurry and did not realize the issue with having to buy larger tires and wheels. I suppose its not a big deal but it sure would make replacing tire and hubs cheaper when they need it.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Hub conversion

By the time you have fuel and gear in that boat plus the weight of the trailer, you are going to be at the upper limit of 15" tires. 16" tires will have some safety margin as well. You would also probably have to go with load rang E 15" tires that are not really that cheap.