Load Range 'C' Tires

[bgilbert]

I want a set of Michelin LTX M/S 285/75/16, which are 'D' range. I have 16x7 wheels which according to Michelin are too small, requires 7. 5-9 inch wide wheels. I have a set of Goodyear workhorses 235/85/16 LR 'E'. I don't haul anything, so I want out of the 10 ply LR 'E's . The next size down in the M/S are 265/75/16 in either E or C. They can be installed on 7 inch wheels. I sure dont want another set of E range tires. Can I run 'C' range tires without any problems, blowouts, etc, or is this truck/engine too heavy for the 'C' range tires even running empty? Thanks Bill

 

[mopar2ya]

HEY, YES YOU CAN RUN C TIRES, the side walls are softer,which make your truck alittle spongy on the corners,ride better,lower payload, there's nothing wrong with running those tires. enjoy

 

[glhs]

You should be fine if your usually emty, but... ..... my brother has 285/75/16 BFGoodrich All Terrains on his 97 CTD with stock rims and they look and fit just fine; 16x7 should be O. K. I think 1st gen rims are 16x6 and the 2nd gen rims are 16x6. 5.

Kurt

 

[sparks57]

You can't run 285s on 7 inch rims. It will bulge the tread in the middle and the tires will wear out very quickly. You need at least 8" rims. Just for reference, the first gen rims are 7" and the 2nd gens are 8", but I think they made a 7" too.



I wouldn't run the C's, but it's up to you. The lowest rated tires I would ever use on a diesel is D's. You will be kinda stuck if you ever find yourself in a position where you need to haul something relatively heavy.

 

[glhs]

not trying to be a know it all but.......

Checked my oem 1st gen steel wheels and they are stamped 16x6. Checked a couple oem 2nd gen (94-97) chrome wheels and they are stamped 16x6. 5.

Looked at my brothers 285/75/16 tires and they are so far wearing even with 20,000 miles and approx. 60% tread left on them. Kurt

 

[bgilbert]

Well, looks like I'm going to go with 265/75/16 LR C. Priced Michelin LTX M/S 285's @$200 mounted, balanced, valve stems+tax each, and they have to be ordered. The 265's @$178 same +tax each, in stock, both from Discount Tire Co. Figured I'd say bout $100 and wouldnt have to worry bout tire rubbing since my front end isnt at stock level- 1" between bumps and spring. I better get 60,000 miles out of these tires for this kind of money and they better ride great. Bill