Tires- back to factory size?

[bgeddes]

My new to me free trailer is in dire need of wheels and tires. The tires are so bad I had it hauled to here on a flat bed. At present it is wearing 4.8x12s but from research (it's a '74 popup camper frame) it orignally had 20x8x10s. What are the pros and cons, besides price, of either tire setup? It's going to do utility trailer duty for a year or so, then will be converted to some sort of overnighting vehicle.

Thanks!!

[Shadow Catcher]

The smaller the tire the more the rotations per mile traveled, limited choice of tires... If I were building a trailer I would go for at least 15" rims.

[bgeddes]

Both tires are just a tick over 20" O.D.

[angib]

The 20x8x10 (actually 20.5x8x10) are high capacity tires chosen as pop-ups became heavier.

Each 4.80-12 will carry (so double this for the whole axle):
- 785 lbs per tire at 60 max psi in B range tire;
- 990 lbs per tire at 90 max psi in C range tire;
and will be 5.0-5.2 in wide.

Each 20.5x8x10 will carry:
- 910 lbs per tire at 35 max psi in B range tire;
- 1100 lbs per tire at 50 max psi in C range tire;
up to
- 1650 lbs per tire at 105 max psi in F range tire;
and will be 8.0-8.4 in wide.

So really the only reason to go back to the factory size would be if you intend to make a very heavy teardrop. The wider tires may also make difficulties for fender choice and overall appearance.