Tire sizes

[Nizzy]

New to the forum and saw a thread regarding 245s vs 265s. Could I put 285s on without modification? I currently have 265s with an "E" load rating.

I was researching the Bridgestone Dueller AT Revo 285s, looks like good reviews and as far as I can tell, the load rating goes from E to D. I pull a 29 ft 5th wheel camper. Can I safely tow it with the 285s (provided they fit).

Niz

[DmaxMaverick]

Welcome to the Forums!

I've been using 285's for years now. The D rated 285 tires are much higher rated than the stock 245E's, 3305 vs 3042 The 265E's are 3415. The 285E tires are rated much higher yet (3.7K something), and I have considered them. I frequently tow a 14K 5'er with no problems. I've been getting good mileage and wear, and the ride is very good. Modifications for the tires will depend on your truck's year and make. I have a 2001 GMC, and completely removed the lower air dam, and re-molded the fender liner a little with a heat gun to keep it clear under all conditions, including heavy off road. Others have kept the air dam, but had to trim it a little. Revos are good tires, but I prefer the old Dueller A/T's. I've found better mileage and longer running, and they're cheaper. Off road traction is very good. Non towing/hauling may be different (soccer mom/grocery getter), but I use the truck as a truck, nearly every day. I used a set of the M/T's, but didn't get the mileage from them, and they are considerably more expensive. Pics of them are in the "Truck Stuff Pics" link in my sig, below. There is a drawback, though. It is recommended you use a wider wheel than OEM with tires wider than 265. I have 16x8 Centerlines, and they have been excellent. Check 'em out in my pics.

[Nizzy]

Thx for the quick response and great advise! Awesome truck, those wheels really fill up the wells nicely. I have an 04 Chevy 2500HD, looks like I may need to trim the lower molding for clearance at a minimum.

One more question for you; with 285s, will I need to reprogram the computer as far as shift points etc...I didn't with the 265s so I'm probably about 3-4% off on the speedo as is. And honestly, I have no clue as to how much it affects the transmission.

Niz

[DmaxMaverick]

The shift points will be fine, and you can't adjust them anyway w/o serious TCM programming.

Your speedo/odo will be off unless you adjust with a programmer. About 7-8%.

[DarylB]

If you can find them, you can run a 255/85/16 on the stock rims without excessive crown & sidewall flex. They are the rougly same height as the 285/75/16, but narrower. a 33 10.50 16 basically.