17.5 steel trailer wheels

Types of 17.5 steel trailer wheels

17.5 steel trailer wheels come in a variety of sizes and configurations to deliver optimal performance, strength, and durability for heavy-duty applications. Here are the types:

• Standard 17.5-inch wheels

  Standard 17.5 trailer wheels are often used in heavy-duty trucking and trailers. They are used in long-distance transport where the loads are heavy. The standard 17.5 steel trailer wheels have durable steel construction. They offer higher load ratings compared to other wheel sizes. The design is simple and functional. It guarantees reliability and strength for heavy-duty applications.

• Dual wheel setups

  17.5 steel trailers can use dual wheel setups. In such cases, two wheels are mounted on each side of the axle. This configuration increases the load capacity and improves stability. It also provides a larger contact patch for the road. The dual wheel setup is often used in extremely heavy loads and specialized applications.

• Wide-base wheels

  Some trailers use wide-base 17.5 wheels. The width is up to 1 inch or more than the standard width. The contact area with the road increases due to the wider wheels. This feature improves traction and stability, especially on soft or uneven grounds. The wide-base wheels also improve fuel efficiency by reducing the flexing of the tire sidewalls.

• Aluminum alloy wheels

  Although the topic is about steel wheels, some trailers use 17.5 aluminum trailer wheels. These wheels offer a lightweight alternative to the standard 17.5 steel wheels. The aluminum alloy wheels reduce the overall weight of the trailer. They also improve the payload capacity and fuel efficiency of the towing vehicle. The corrosion resistance of aluminum alloy wheels improves appearance and longevity.

• Custom offset and bolt patterns

  Some trailer manufacturers make custom 17.5 steel trailer wheels. They offer specific offset and bolt patterns based on the trailer's requirements. The custom wheels ensure proper alignment, fitment, and compatibility with specialized trailers.

Specification and maintenance of 17.5 steel trailer wheels

17.5 steel trailer wheels have specific specifications that make them suitable for heavy-duty applications. Here are some common specifications:

• Dimension: The 17.5 steel trailer wheel gets its name from the 17.5-inch diameter. It is a metric tire size that uses millimeters. The most common 17.5 steel trailer wheel sizes are 215/75R17.5 and 235/75R17.5. The first number represents the tire width in millimeters. The height-to-width aspect ratio is the second number. The wheel's diameter in inches is the third number.
• Load capacity: 17.5 steel trailer wheels support heavy loads. For instance, the 215/75R17.5 size has a maximum load capacity of about 4,600 pounds (2,090 kg) per dual wheel. This means that a trailer with four wheels can carry a total of 18,400 pounds (8,360 kg).
• Wheel bolt pattern: The bolt pattern connects the wheel to the trailer's axle hub. It consists of lug holes and bolts. The most common patterns for 17.5 steel trailer wheels are 10 lugs in a 285 mm circle and 8 lugs in a 225 mm circle.
• Offset: The offset is the distance between the wheel's centerline and the mounting surface. A positive offset pushes the wheel inwards, while a negative offset extends it outwards.

Maintaining 17.5 steel trailer wheels is necessary to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Regular inspection: Trailer wheel condition affects safety and performance. Therefore, inspect the wheels regularly for cracks, damage, and rust. Check the lug nut for looseness and ensure the wheel is tightly secured to the trailer. Also, look for uneven wear patterns on the tires.
• Proper lubrication: Lubricate the wheel bearings with the manufacturer's recommended lubricant. This reduces friction, which minimizes wear and tear. Check the wheel seal to prevent water and dirt from getting into the bearings.
• Correct tire pressure: Check the tire pressure with a gauge at least once a month. The recommended tire pressure is on the trailer's door or the tire's sidewall. Ensure the pressure is the same before every trip. Uneven tire pressure causes premature tire wear and affects handling.
• Wheel alignment: Wheel alignment is essential for steel trailer wheels. Misalignment causes uneven tire wear and affects handling and stability. For instance, if a trailer has a 14+ axle conversion, the alignment specs differ. The front axle's (steering axle) alignment specs are as follows: camber 0.5 degrees, toe 1/8 inch, and caster 1/8 inch.

How to Choose 17.5 Steel Trailer Wheels

When purchasing 17.5 steel trailer wheels, buyers should consider the following factors:

• Load capacity: The load capacity of a trailer wheel is vital when selecting a suitable option for a specific purpose. Buyers should calculate the weight of the trailer and the load it carries and select wheels with adequate capacity. The wheel's load capacity is printed on its sidewall. For dual-wheel configurations, the combined load rating of the individual wheels should be considered.
• Offset and trailer wheel size: Trailer wheels are available in various sizes and diameters. The size and offset should be compatible with the trailer's wheel well and braking system. A larger wheel allows for better brake ventilation and offers improved ground clearance. However, it may affect the trailer's acceleration and fuel efficiency.
• Design and appearance: The design and appearance of a trailer wheel can greatly affect the overall look of the trailer. Buyers can select a wheel with a simple design or one with decorative trims, depending on their preferred style.

Additionally, buyers should consider the availability of replacement parts, including wheel bearings, seals, and other components. They should ensure the trailer parts are readily available and offer accessibility in case of emergencies.

How to DIY and Replace 17.5 Steel Trailer Wheels

Replacing and maintaining 17.5 steel trailer wheels is no easy task. It requires a certain level of expertise and knowledge. However, this does not mean that it cannot be done. It is important to ensure that the proper tools are available before attempting to replace a trailer wheel. The tools needed for this task include:

• Lug wrench
• Jack
• Jack stands
• Torque wrench
• New wheel and tire (if replacing)

To replace the trailer wheel, follow the steps below:

• 1. First, ensure that the trailer is parked on a level surface. Then, after finding a level surface, stabilize the trailer with wheel chocks and engage the parking brake.
• 2. The next step is to loosen the lug nuts with a lug wrench. Ensure that the trailer is still grounded with the lug nuts still intact.
• 3. After loosening the lug nuts, place the jack under the trailer's frame and lift the wheel off the ground. Once the trailer is lifted, remove the jack stands for added stability and safety.
• 4. Now that the trailer is lifted, the next step is to remove the lug nuts completely and then remove the old wheel and tire.
• 5. Mount the new wheel and tire onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
• 6. Lower the trailer by removing the jack stands and lowering the jack. Then, use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.

After replacing the 17.5 steel trailer wheels, remember to perform a lug nut retorque after driving a short distance. This will ensure that the lug nuts are still properly tightened.

Q and A

Q1: What are 17.5 steel wheels for trailers?

A1: They are trailer wheels made of steel and have a diameter of 17.5 inches. They are often used on heavy-duty trailers because of their strength and durability.

Q2: What is the advantage of 17.5 steel trailer wheels over other materials like aluminum?

A2: The 17.5 steel trailer wheels are very hard and durable, so they can withstand heavy loads and are not easily damaged. They are particularly suitable for commercial purposes that require frequent use of trailers for transportation of goods. In addition, steel wheels have better wear resistance than aluminum wheels. When the road conditions are poor, the steel wheels can hold up better.

Q3: How much weight can 17.5 steel trailer wheels carry?

A3: The carrying capacity of 17.5 steel trailer wheels depends on the specific wheel model and trailer design. Generally speaking, 17.5 steel trailer wheels can bear a load of about 6000-7000 pounds per axle. It is very important to ensure that the load on each wheel does not exceed its bearing capacity.

Q4: How to maintain 17.5 steel trailer wheels?

A4: 17.5 steel trailer wheels need regular maintenance to maintain their good performance and durability. Here are some tips for maintaining these wheels: Regularly clean the wheels to remove dirt, dust, and debris. This can prevent the accumulation of contaminants on the wheel surface and maintain its cleanliness and appearance. Check the wheels regularly to ensure that they are in good condition. If there is damage, deformation, or other problems, timely repair or replacement is required. Check the tires of the trailer wheels regularly. Ensure that the tire pressure and tread depth meet the standard requirements. If the tire pressure is too low or the tread depth is uneven, it may cause uneven wear of the trailer wheels or affect their performance.