2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Largest tires on 97 2500 with alloy wheels?

[nwilliams98]

Hi everyone,

I have a 97 2500 with 4. 10 gears. The truck currently has 265-75-16 tires but the inside of the door panel says 245-75-16.



First, which tires came stock with the upgraded wheels?



Second, What are the tallest tires I can put on this thing without lifting? I'm trying to reduce the gear ratio.



Thanks,

Nathan

 

[benhall]

OEM Tire Size

Nathan,



Back in 97, the largest factory tires were the 245's. Your 265's that you are running right now, weren't available on the 2500's until 00. They were however optional on the 1500's on all 2nd Gen trucks.



I hope this helps,



Ben

 

[Groover]

Nathan 285-75-16 will fit without a problem (33") 255-85-16 will fit also (33. 3"?). Either of these sizes will give you a taller tire and about +/- 8% increase in effective gear ratio.



The 255's are slightly taller but the 285's look better. Your choice.



You didn't say what width the alloy wheels are? I will assume 7" and either of those tire sizes will work with that rim width.



My . 02

 

[dnitzel]

I have Goodyear LT285/70R17 Wrangler MTRs on my 2500 '01 with the stock alum wheels, no lift. http://www.goodyeartires.com/catalog/products/WRLMTRSize.html



I really like them! Great traction, look great, handle well, TOUGH and low noise for an aggressive tire. I expect about 30k to 40k out of them. I think the 285's are the largest that can fit on a stock rim. 305's may fit but will rub. If you haul heavy loads on your truck MAKE SURE the tires have a high load ratings. Mine are rated for 3385# at 60 or 80 psi. I think they are load range D. I had some Goodyear Wrangler ATS same size before, fairly aggressive, runs smoother, same load rating, got 50K out of them, and they go for about $600 a set. MTRs are $800 a set.



The 285's will not have much impact on gear ratio. If you're after mileage, a hard rubber street type tire is sometimes your best bet. I get avg. 14 mpg in town/highway and never more than 16 to 17 on the highway empty, 60 to 75 mph with my 3. 73, SO CTD, 4x4, 5 spd. Loaded, 10 to 12 total weight of 20K, 60- 65 mph. Hope this helps.