In looking at more recent models (post 2002 or so) I seems most have chrome wheels and a chrome trimmed spare cover. Are these an upgrade, or does a white enamel wheel indicate an aftermarket or replacement?

Also, I have found an 04' 17 foot towlite at a great price. It is a little far away, but might still be worth the trouble. Is there anything specific to this year - or major improvements made after 2004? It seems to me '04-09 were pretty much identical in layout and features.

Delray, I don't think there is a particular advantage in one kind over another. My trailer has galvanized steel wheels. They were the only ones I could find at the time that would fit my larger tires and that had a higher pressure rating. My 2007 trailer originally came with white wheels.

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Hi-Lo 1707T - Tire Minder TPMS on Tow Vehicle and Trailer, 300W Solar Battery Charger, Equal-i-zer WDH, Progressive Dynamics Converter, Fan-Tastic Fan, LiFePO4 battery 12V DC Electrical System, SoftStartRV mounted on A/C
2024 F150 Platinum FX4 3.5L PowerBoost SCrew

I could be wrong here but I always thought the alloy silver spoke wheels were just newer, fancier "shoes" that matched what has become popular on the pickups and boat trailers. On vehicles I think there can be a weight and stiffness advantage to the alloys, but on a trailer I always figured they were cosmetic. I'm open to learn something new though ...

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2000 24' Classic, "We have the technology, we must rebuild it"

Also in the garage, some stuff to pull it:
1999 3/4 ton 'Burb
1993 Roadmaster wagon (well, it probably won't pull it)

The cast aluminum wheels were optional on Towlite and maybe standard on Classics. The plain white enameled wheels were standard. Our 2310H came with the white wheels with snap on plastic hub covers and chrome trim rings. I don't believe the aluminum wheels had any advantage over the steel wheels.

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My Great Wife Joyce
2018 Jayco Jay Flight 21QB
Formerly owned 1705T and 2310H
2012 F150 4X4 SuperCrew EcoBoost w/Leer Cap
Reese WD Strait-Line Hitch
Amateur Radio K3EXU