2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Taller and skinnier tires for better MPG?

[rstl9999]

I am just about to buy a new set of tires for my 96 2500 auto 4x4 with 4. 10 gearing. I carry a reasonable-size slide-in camper (older Alaskan, which comes down for driving to lessen wind drag etc. ).

- One of my considerations is improving MPG for long road trips.

- Another is having a tough tire that will handle some long stretches of gravel roads on Northern trips. The rest of the driving will be on pavement. - Looking at Toyo M55 or Open Country AT, in 10 ply E range.

- My stock tire size is 245-75-R16 (16" 6. 5" wheels).

- Some have suggested going 265-75 for slightly taller tire, and wider for better floatation with the camper.

- Others have suggested 235-85 for slighty taller and narrower tire.

- I would think the 235-85 may offer MPG benefits, but am not sure if it's a good idea with the slide-in camper to go with narrower tire.

- Opinions, suggestions?

Thanks.

 

[VolsFan]

I almost went with 255/85/16's two yrs ago when I was in the market for tires. I could only get them in a mud terrain tread, no all terrain, so I just stuck with the 285/75's ive been running,(mastercraft courser) and they were a couple hundred bucks cheaper too. I think the best option would be to go with the 265's for a slightly wider and taller tire but not sacrifice much in the way of fuel economy, and there are a ton of different tread options, manufacturers, and load ranges. On my dads 99 he has a set of firestone 265/75's he got pretty reasonably, mounted on the stock chrome wheels and they look pretty good, holding up well.

 

[Regcabguy]

There's a 3rd gen running around my area wearing 265-70-19. 5's. I wish some company would release a 17" E-rated in that same dimension tire.



It could be as tall as my present 34"s but skinny like the 265's.

 

[jelag]

I run 245 /85/ 19. 5" on my 05 3500 dually... . I use a Bridgestone rib tire. . its about 2" bigger in diameter than the stock 17"... what I've learned with several trucks is that the odometer is now spot on compared to my GPS... I've seen no improvement in mileage. .

I do get close to 100K miles on a set of tires for about the same cost as the stock 17" tires. . and something like 750 more load capacity per tire than the stock tires. .

We now pull a 5er with this truck but used to pull a 20k lb work trailer...

I'm very pleased with the cost per mile, performance and the safety factor... for me that's enough

 

[AMink]

I ran the 255/85-16's on my 97. I don't remember what the difference, if any, was in mileage. I think they looked better than the stock 245's. For road use, and off road/not a lot of mud, I think skinnier tires are the answer. They are also better in snow. (Yes, I know the 255's are wider than the 245's:-laf. )

 

[rstl9999]

Thanks to all for your perspectives and thoughts on this. Helps me in my decision-making process.

 

[justinemmons]

i get better towing miliage with stock tires but got better unloaded miliage with a slightly bigger tire.

 

[BDW]

i get better towing miliage with stock tires but got better unloaded miliage with a slightly bigger tire.

I found the same to be true for me.