16 inch wheels on Reflection RS29

[Husker]

Has anyone installed 16 inch wheels on a 2017 Reflection RS29? It looks like it will have room but haven't measured yet. I am interested in the G rated Goodyear G614RST. The only size I have found is LT235/85R-16 that appear to be 31.7 inches diameter compared to my Westlake 15s that are 28.3 inches diameter. I would think a 3.4 inch increase would be doable but wanted to see if anyone has done this yet.
Thank you

[Husker]

Bump...anyone?

[TucsonJim]

Hi Husker. There are several options that I'd consider.

1. Changing from Westlake ST225/75R15 to a premium brand like Goodyear Endurance in the same size. The specs on the two tires are the same.
2. Changing from Westlake ST225/75R15 to a larger premium tire like Goodyear Endurance ST235/80R16. This tire will give you 3,420# of Max Load which would be 590# more than your current tires. They are less costly than the G614 tires, but still made in the USA. They are 30.8" vs. the 31.7 of the G614 which would give you a little more leeway for clearance.
3. Going to the G614 tires.

You'll need to measure the distance from the top of your current tires to the bottom of the fender on the trailer. The minimum clearance that I'd go with is 4" to prevent rubbing.

To switch to the Endurance ST235/80R16, you'll need 5.25" of clearance from the top of your current tires. (30.8"-28.3")/2 = 1.25". 1.25" + 4" (Minimum clearance) = 5.25".
If you want to switch to the G614 LT235/85R16, you'll need 5.7" clearance from the top of your current tires. (31.7"-28.3")/2 = 1.7". 1.7" + 4" (Minimum clearance) = 5.7".

Next, you'll need to see if you have enough clearance between the tires so they don't rub on each other. I like to maintain at least 3" between the tires for adequate clearance.
Measure the spacing between your current tires. If you have at least 5.5" between the tires, you can probably accommodate the Endurance ST235/80R16 Endurance. If you have 6.4" of clearance between your current tires, you can most likely accommodate the G614 tire.

But remember, there are some potential drawbacks to running tires with more weight capacity than you currently have. The ride can be harsher on the trailer. The tires can run hotter, and the limiting factor will probably still be your axle rating on the trailer.

Jim

Jim

[Cate&Rob]

Husker - Further to Jim's advice (which I agree with) . . .
Your 29RS probably has 5200 lb axles and 8" frame rails. (You should confirm this before proceeding) If you have the 2" square tube spacer between the spring hangers and the frame rail (see picture), you will have enough space for 16" wheels and tires. If you don't have the spacer, you would be best to stay with 15" wheels and tires which are more than adequate for 5200 lb axles.

Rob

[Husker]

Thanks Jim. What would make these tires run hotter?

[TucsonJim]

Thanks Jim. What would make these tires run hotter?

A G614 Tire has more material (e.g. plys) inside of them than a "E" rated ST tire. More mass means more capability to retain heat. It's not necessarily a bad thing, but something to consider.

Jim

[Husker]

Thanks Jim and Rob, great inputs. I am not looking to up my capacity in any way. I simply want to be able to install the best tires available and they all seem to be in the 16 in range.
Doug

[Cate&Rob]

Hi Doug,

I agree that there is a lot more choice of tires for 16" rims. After a fair amount of research I went with Maxxis ST225/75R15 replacements for my same size Westlakes. I ran the Westlakes for two seasons with no problems and now have one season on the Maxxis tires with no issues. This was before the Goodyear Endurance entered the market. I would certainly give the Endurance serious consideration but it is new and Maxxis has a good track record.

Rob

[TucsonJim]

I hear ya. I put new 15" Carlisle Radial HD tires on mine about two months before I found out about the release of the new Goodyear Endurance ST tires. If I had it to do over again right now, I would not hesitate and would put on the Endurance brand. We'll probably put on about 10K miles this summer, so I may just elect to switch over when we get home even though the current tires will only be a year old.


Jim

[minnow101]

I can vouch for the Maxxis 10ply in the 15". I have run this brand of tires on my previous 2005 Cougar fifth wheel and now on my 2015 27RL.