2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission What size tires?

[sgoeing]

I have a 99 quad cab, short bed, automatic, 4x4 with 3. 55 gears, and I need new tires. The only performance mod is an edge juice with attitude and I leave that on 1x3 for mileage.



The original tires say LT245/75R16E (30. 5" tire)

I currently have LT285/75R16E (32. 8" tire)





I think it's pretty weak feeling, but I like the highway rpm's Like 1700 at 75mph. What tire size would you put on if it was your truck for 99% on road unloaded driving, about half around town and half highway?

 

[TWilkening]

If you feel that the 285s are to big, maybe try 265s. And if you never load your truck, you probably don't need 10 plys.

 

[sgoeing]

Sorry, I meant I don't tow much when I said unloaded.



I have been known to buy pallets of bricks, rock, etc. and fill the whole bed with them, so I'll probably pony up for the E's again.





I was thinking about 265 or with my shallow gearing, maybe even going back to stock, but I was just wondering what thoughts others had on that (i. e. , how it would affect mileage and performance).

 

[Joe Mc]

My 99 has 305/70/16 Nitto Terra Grapplers - they do not rub anywhere. The previous set of Coopers I had (of the same size) did not rub either. However, the Nittos are rated "E" unlike the Coopers which were "D". I recently di a paver job at the house and had 720 pavers on the back - I was glad I had the "Es" instead of the "Ds".

 

[Ereynolds72]

I had the same Nittos on my truck and loved 'em. Stick with the E Rated tires. They give you a much more controlled steering feel; loaded or unloaded.

 

[sgoeing]

thanks for the suggestion. Considering I have pretty sloppy steering (and often load the truck down), I will go with the E's.





Anyone have any opinions on size and its effects on mileage and power with my shallow gearing?

 

[Joe Mc]

thanks for the suggestion. Considering I have pretty sloppy steering (and often load the truck down), I will go with the E's.


Anyone have any opinions on size and its effects on mileage and power with my shallow gearing?

With all the torque these motors put out you should be fine. I've got the 3:54s too and w/the 305 tires I've never noticed a problem leaving a light or having the trans down**** at hills while on cruise control. And, it goes down the highway right in the sweet spot (19-2100 rpms).

 

[Rattler]

Mine too came with the 245's. I have ran 285's, 305's and now have 265's. I don't think there has been a huge difference between them other than the 305's were not e's and the truck seemed a little loose on the highway when towing. I don't know what size i will try next. These only have about 10000 on them so far. Randy

 

[Joe Mc]

I had the same Nittos on my truck and loved 'em. Stick with the E Rated tires. They give you a much more controlled steering feel; loaded or unloaded.

EXACTLY - I forgot about how "cushy" the Cooper "Ds" were. Go with the "Es" for sure.