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Currently, Im running Toyo MT in 295/70/17, about a 33.2 tire. Im planning on going back to an OEM 18 wheel for now and either a 275/70/18 (33.1), or a 285/75/18 (34.8). While there is quite a bit of difference in height, between the two, I do have to consider mpg with as many miles as I drive each year. It is a noticeable difference in expenses.
With all that said, my current setup is 100# at each corner, I expect to either stay the same, or gain a little bit of improvement by going to the 275/70/18 (KO2 54#) because it will be a less aggressive tire and a little lighter too. Im figuring a savings of #18 per corner. Now, a 285/75/18, I can end up either saving a little in the weight dept. with the Cooper AT3, or remain at around 100# per corner with the Ridge Grappler.
How much difference does weight make, should I be worrying about #15-20? All things equal, if I avg. 14mpg now, should I expect much of a difference in mpg with a 1.5 taller tire of the same or less weight?
If all you have to offer is to get a stock size tire because Im considering mpg, go post on someone elses thread, a difference of $1500-2k a year in fuel/cost of tires is worth evaluating.
Also, speedo is corrected and I hand calculate/track all vehicle expenses.
I ordered the Ridge Grappler in 285/75/18 this morning. Should have them in by Wed. or Thursday. Best deal I could find was $1216 after tax w/free shipping.
There is no real formula to it. Each tire type has a different rolling resistance based on many things like tread design, softness and type of material the tire is made of, tire width (aerodynamics), as well as the things you've mentioned like diameter and tire weight. Generally the things that decrease fuel economy are tires that are wider, larger diameter, heavier, aggressive tread, softer material, etc. Unfortunately, those are the things that most people like in their tires for offroad performance or just plain aesthetics.
General rule of thumb I've heard is that unsprung weight (tire, wheel, rotor/hub, etc) has about double the negative effect of sprung weight. And for each 100lbs of sprung weight you lose 1/10 per second in a quarter mile. So for example, say the overall difference between the 275/70/18 K02's and the 285/75/18 is 20lbs each (to be conservative), multiplied by 4 tires is 80lbs total. Then double that number to approximate the effect of sprung weight, you are looking at almost 2/10's per second lost in a quarter mile on just tire weight alone. That's not even taking into account the penalty you'll see from the increased tired diameter... nor any of the other factors that have been mentioned.
We realize you probably won't be racing your truck, but that gives you an idea of the increased load the motor will be seeing, and the subsequent decreased fuel economy. Generally, it's best to run the smallest, lightest tire practical. That's why XL work trucks run narrow, smaller diameter street tires on a stamped steel 17" rim. It makes a noticeable difference, and fleet owners like efficient vehicles.
Should have gone with Cooper. After having Coopers on ALL of my vehicles and a few of my old ones, I will never buy anything else.
AK4wheeler
I had the ATP's on my 13' F150, had to have two tires replaced due to uneven wear and not balancing. I wasn't a big fan, but had good luck with them previously which is why they were being considered. I know the Ridge Grapplers are good tires. Just wish they weren't so heavy. They'll be delivered today and should have them installed tomorrow morning.
Got the tires on today. The difference in wheels will take some getting used to, but will work for the time being. Only have a few miles on the tires but so far, noticeably smoother and silent compared to my Toyo MT's.
You made a great choice. I run Ridge Grapplers and they are outstanding. They are incredible off-road and awesome on the highway. Your truck looks great!
05-28-2018, 09:06 PM
Buying New Tires-Help me decide
