Forum Discussion

ChuckNTruck's avatar
ChuckNTruck
Explorer
Nov 25, 2016

Swap from St tires to LT

I dont want to start another LT vs ST debate. I just wanted to show how i did the swap on my trailer.
I used lift block designed and machined for trailer axles with larger u-bolts to lift the axles 2 inches. Then i swapped the 14in wheels with 205/75R14 tires to 15in wheels with LT235/75R15 tires. These are the smallest LT tires i could find. I have put about 1000-1500 miles on it so far and i have not noticed any difference in how it pulls or rides. But i like the extra 800lb capacity thee tires provide and the higher speed rating. I also added a BAL tire carrier so i wouldn't damage the rear bumper.
My X-chocks still fit between the tires perfectly and i have zero clearance issues anywhere.



  • Hannibal's avatar
    Hannibal
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2016
    Looks good! Should be a bit less squishy in side winds.

    I have to agree with JIMNLIN about the lift blocks. Might want to double check those.
  • deltabravo's avatar
    deltabravo
    Nomad
    Nov 26, 2016
    Huntindog wrote:
    Huntindog wrote:
    I got steel blocks here:Custom lift blocks


    I have purchased from him several times. Talking to him, he seems to be an older gentleman that makes these things himself. Very good to deal with.


    Looks like his blocks are much more affordable.

    In my research, I found that for folks with "spring under axle", Dexter makes a conversion kit to do the "spring over axle" conversion.
  • Huntindog's avatar
    Huntindog
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2016
    JIMNLIN wrote:


    However be warned suspension lift blocks on a trailer aren't the best idea for several reasons.
    Side loading as a trailers tire/wheel and suspension slips sideway as the trailer goes around a corner or backing makes going to the next diameter U bolts.....heavier top plate.....and especially heavier spring keepers is a wise choice. Blocks add more leverage to all those components.

    Some trucks come from the factory with lift blocks. In fact Ford was removing them for some customers for free at one time, when they wanted a lower ride height.

    I have been using blocks on TTs for over 10 years, and LOTs of off road travel. No problems to date..
    I do think that one should keep the size reasonable... But 2" is within my comfort zone.
  • Huntindog's avatar
    Huntindog
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2016
    deltabravo wrote:
    Huntindog wrote:
    I got steel blocks here:Custom lift blocks


    Yikes. That's a 1997 vintage website. ick.


    I have purchased from him several times. Talking to him, he seems to be an older gentleman that makes these things himself. Very good to deal with.

    I could care less about a flashy up to date website.
  • JIMNLIN's avatar
    JIMNLIN
    Explorer III
    Nov 26, 2016
    Moving to a LT is a great move for 40k-60k miles and 7-10 years of trouble free service on any trailer.

    However be warned suspension lift blocks on a trailer aren't the best idea for several reasons.
    Side loading as a trailers tire/wheel and suspension slips sideway as the trailer goes around a corner or backing makes going to the next diameter U bolts.....heavier top plate.....and especially heavier spring keepers is a wise choice. Blocks add more leverage to all those components.

    You may also want to check with your state dot folks if its legal to do so on a trailer. Haulers from certain states have reported suspension blocks they added on their trailers in commercial service not passing the required annual vehicle safety inspections.

    I would do a monthly suspension check...especially U bolts and spring keepers.
  • Huntindog's avatar
    Huntindog
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2016
    time2roll wrote:
    Blocks
    Those blocks won't work for trailer springs.
    They are 2.5" wide, trailer springs are usually 1.75" wide.
  • Huntindog's avatar
    Huntindog
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2016
    ChuckNTruck wrote:
    I used 2in blocks because these tires are 3 inches overall bigger than the stockers and i already had a few marks where the factory tires rubbed above them.
    Also i got the blocks and U-bolt from
    http://www.trailerblocks.com/
    A little pricey but great quality!
    Wow they sure are pricey.

    I got steel blocks here:Custom lift blocks
    When I did it, they only offered steel blocks with a maximum 1" thickness. So I ordered double and welded them together.
    I see they now are offering aluminum blocks in many thicknesses...
    And the prices are a lot more reasonable.
  • Passin_Thru's avatar
    Passin_Thru
    Explorer
    Nov 26, 2016
    I have an Arctic Fox 31W. I used Isuzu truck rims and put Michelin LT 15s on. Ride is smoother and height the same.

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