2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Increasing Tire Size on Stock 2002

[RHoppe]

Was looking for input on increasing tire size on a stock 2002 with automatic Trans. Stock tires are 265/75 R16. If I wanted to step up to a 285/75 R16, will I end up with transmission issues, or lack of power to turn bigger tires? How much will the speedo be off? Any clearance problems ?? What about mileage ?? Any thoughts are appreciated !!!

 

[Chief USA]

I upgraded to that exact tire size about 4 years ago. I have the manual 6 speed. I bought a set of the Walmart Liberator tires. The increase in size actually made my speedometer more accurate after testing it against a road side radar. Didn't seem to hurt the mileage and I think it may have increased the mileage a little.

 

[DennyDay]

RHoppe - - We have two stock trucks, an 01 and an 02, both with 285X16 tires - - both are 4X4 and no problem with clearance except the spare tire space. I just put two short 2X4's (about 18" long) on the pan and cranked the spare into place - - Doesn't hang below the hitch and all is well!



Denny

 

[Chief USA]

The Walmart Liberator 285/75-16 tires just barely fit and needed a little persuasion to get into the spare tire well. If the tire was the least bit larger it would not have fit.

 

[FDNYMOPARGUY]

Not all 285/75r16's are created equal. I went from a 265 to a 285 also. With BFG's my speedo/odo was off by 3. 5%. I now have Pep Boys Definity's (made by Cooper). The error is now 2. 5%. It's a slightly shorter tire than some other brands. I have a six speed with 3. 55 gears. I have never had milage, wear, or clearance issues with this size tire.

 

[Joe Mc]

My 305/70/16 Nittos do not rub anywhere and the spare is a tight fit between the rails but it does fit. Before I had the Eagle wheels I had 305/70/16 Coopers on the stock chrome wheels and no rubs. The speedo lies about 5 mph slow.

 

[RHoppe]

I'm thinking on going with the Toyo Open Country M/T's, ... . 285/75 R16's, Thanks for the info and the replies