How to Measure a Trailer's Tire Bolt Pattern

There are a variety of trailers on the road today. From homemade trailers which can be simple in nature, to full size camper trailers which can weigh thousands of pounds. The standard bolt patterns on a trailer are based upon a five-lug system. The five-lug system means that there are five lug stems per wheel. Measuring to find a trailer's bolt pattern is an identical process, regardless of the size of the trailer.

• 1

  Place a tape measure against two lug bolts which are located directly across from one another.

• 2

  Measure the distance from the center of one lug to the back side of the second lug (See Resources for diagram).

• 3

  Write the measurement down using a pen and paper. Perform Steps 1 and 2 again from a different angle, to ensure accuracy and quality of your measurement.