A boat trailer wheel, like all other wheels, is a circular device that is capable of rotating on its axis, facilitating movement or transportation or performing labor in machines. The wheel together with an axle overcomes friction by facilitating motion by rolling.
In order for trailer wheels to rotate, a moment needs to be applied to the wheel about its axis, either by way of gravity or by application of another external force. As such, bigger is better when it comes to the size of the trailer wheels. The bigger your wheel, the less they will have to rotate per mile. There won’t be as much heat or tread wear on the tires if they rotate more times per mile. You’ll also get more life out of your wheel bearings. The wheel bearings also benefit from rotating less per mile.
Trailer wheels that are small rotate very fast and build up heat on a trip such that when they’re submerged during boat launching. They also pull water through the hubs and into the bearings. So if your budget leaves you no choice but to get small trailer wheels instead of larger ones, regularly check unsealed bearings and see if they need to be repacked with grease.
On the other hand, there are disadvantages in getting large wheels for your boat trailer. If you fit larger wheels, then you have to back the trailer in a long way when launching. This then puts your vehicle in a lot deeper. Depending on the ramp, you may even fall off the end of it. Boat trailer wheels are small for a reason.
On that note, there are no special recreational marine designators for wheel sizes and the wheel you find on a boat trailer will be marked just like all the rest of the several hundred million wheels sold in North America. If you use Google to search for information on "wheel size" you will get over three million websites that have information on wheel sizes.
Specifications of Good Boat Trailer Wheels
In regards to looking for the right specs for high-quality and high-caliber wheels, you have a lot of wheels to choose from. There’s the basic package, high-speed tubeless trailer wheels available with 4 or 5 hole bolt patterns are available in either painted or galvanized finish. The 8" and 10" trailer wheels are the ‘Standard Solid’ design, while the 12" wheels are of the 8-Spoke style.
Then there’s the Multi-Purpose Boat Trailer Wheel, with a distinctive tacky grease coating which resists washout under most severe water conditions. It passes American Society of Testing Material Standard No. D1743 with superior rust and corrosion protection and high melting point. Furthermore, it also minimizes expansion or pressure built-up in fully packed trailer wheel hubs.
If you’d rather a ‘ST’ Steel and Aluminum Special, you can avail of the best quality, high-speed tubeless trailer wheels with 4, 5, 6 or 8 hole bolt patterns are available in either aluminum, painted or galvanized finish. The price range for all of the above examples is $85-$90. Take note though that most of the wheels available in the market don’t have a valve stem included with them upon purchase.
Boat Trailer Wheel Maintenance and Storage
The quality and condition of your trailer wheels is critical to your (and other people’s) safety on the road. You should regularly inspect wheels for wear and bearings for proper lubrication. To make the latter an easier process, consider a device that keeps bearings lubricated at all times. Simply look at the device and you’ll know if you need to add grease. These systems also reduce how often you need to repack your bearings.
Also, to prevent your boat from rolling during storage, use wheel chocks, especially if on a slope. Units can be purchase in plastic or metal models to hold trailer tires in place. Another handy item is a jack wheel stop. This flat, plastic ring encircles the jack’s wheel, preventing it from moving.
Moreover, remove wheels and hubs from time to time; inspect hubs for wear and rough surfaces and turn drums if necessary. Remember, salt water will destroy trailer wheels, springs and axles if not properly rinsed after each use in salt water.
Having a spare wheel and the tools to change a flat is wise when towing a boat with a trailer. Spare wheels also can be secured to a trailer with special hardware. Carriers come in models for various tire types and in different mounting options.
Use a cover to protect the spare from the elements. Adding a cap to your bearings will help contain grease, preventing it from splattering on the hubs of your wheels. Carry a spare bearing kit as a precaution for problems during travel.
Finally, if your trailer doesn’t have fenders for the wheels, consider adding some. Fenders protect your boat’s hull, trailer and vehicle from dirt and debris while towing. Some fenders also have side steps. Steps can be useful when launching and loading your boat. They are also safer to walk on than a wet, slippery trailer frame.