Lil' help understanding tire load ratings

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I'm confused about how tire load ranges work. The stock 245's are load range E at (3042lbs), yet my 285's are load range D at (3,4xxlbs can't remember the last two numbers).

I thought E was higher than D?? I don't understand how they come up with these numbers and ratings.

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98. 5' 24v 2500 Auto/3. 54 4x4 SB QC. Everything but leather. PIAA 1200's, AMSOIL dual filter relocation system, Smittybuilt Stainless Steel Nerfs, Rhino Liner(Junk), K&N air filter(For Sale)15 year AMSOIL dealer. Time permitting, Soon to include Ultra-lite Pyro,0-50lbs boost, Trans temp in the pillar. Rancho 9000's with in cab adjustment.

 

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I don't know either, but they seem to be relative to the tire size. Seen D rated tires in larger sizes with a higher "max load" in pounds than a smaller E rated tires. In other words they only make sense when comparing load ratings between tires of the same size. Best to use the actual load rating in pounds for the tire and ignore the stupid letter code. #ad


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Just got my 2001 2500 QC, SB, 4x4, ETH 6-sp, 3. 54 LSD, SLT++ (everything but those lights on top of the roof), White over Silver, Tan leather. Picked it up 8/31/00.

 

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It's my understanding that it has more to do with the type/style/number of belts that make up the casing. In other words an D tire is soft and E is harder.

Max load is more important to me than the letter.

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4-sale or Trade
'99, 3/4, QC, SLT, 4x4, ISB, 5sp, 3. 5xlsd, tow pac, HD tcase, tow mirrors, camper pac, White over driftwood, Mist gray interior. With less than 19,000 miles.

[This message has been edited by BV (edited 09-27-2000). ]

 

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The 5. 00 x 12" tires on my forklift are load range D,max load @120 psi is 6,400 lbs,these are 12 ply tires. As you can see the load ranges don't mean a lot unless you are a tire engineer.