grizzstang

I know the 285's will fit but I only have 355 LS for gearing. I also tow a travel trailer that is about 5500 pounds loaded and was also looking at an LT tire for that reason. I do have a programmer to adjust for the taller tires but will the power loss be too great for towing. Move from a P265 to an LT265/70r17 or jump to an LT285/70r17 Thoughts?

VFL

I have no issues at all with a 2wd with 265 70 R17s with 3.55 rear end on my 2003. I believe 285s are just wider if I'm not mistaken. I wouldn't go any wider with my truck because it's already pretty buldged on the stock wheels. Just my opinion. Good luck!

grizzstang

In the AT's I am looking at the LT265 is 31.6" and the LT285 is 32.7" so a little over 1" taller and the LT's are heavier than a P rated tire too.


40 lbs vs. 52 lbs vs. 55 lbs

Fordfan2006

I'd say LT 265's cheaper and put less stress on your truck.

greenheadkiller98

I should have a good opinion for you bc I've had p265 and also lt285s and pull a good sized camper as well. I went from p265s to a lt285 on a 5.4 fx4. I plan on going back to the p265s. I went to the 285 size bc I thought it would look better but honestly it kinda looks too stuffed. I prefer the stock look. So I'll be going back to the 265 size. As for the load rating. I HATE the ride of the LTs but they do handle better (cornering) and seem to track a little straighter. The camper I pull is between 6500-7000lbs depending on what I have in it (moto toy hauler) Honestly the difference between the LT and P rating is not enough for me to buy LTs again. The cost and rough ride do not outweigh the slightly better handing to me. These trucks don't need LTs the max tow of a 5.4 with 3.55 or 3.73s is rated with the P rated tires. And I'm usually pretty close to that rating. And honestly I think the stock tires can handle more than the motor can haha. Bottom line these trucks absolutely do not need LT tires regardless of what everyone says lol. I pulled that weight regularly on P265/70r17 with absolutely no problems, no sway bar on the weight distribution hitch either. Just remember what you are pulling and adjust your driving manners appropriately l. I usually just do 65 tops (anything over that feels like the truck is about to kill itself lol)

Tackle

I had Lt285s then went to p265 then to LT265 and that is where I'm going to stick till I get rid of the truck. Drivability and power between 285 and 265 is unnoticed. Have 3.55 also.

DrillRig52

The difference between LT285 and 265 when towing 5500# is going to be negligible. I've towed quite a bit with my 285s and it handles it just fine. Hell I even pulled 10,000# at one point when moving. Also, with that weight I would stick with a LT tire, I don't feel like the ride is overly harsh and I have an add a leaf as well with tires set at 45-50 psi. Oh and 285s look more badasser.

CDIESEL

You will notice no difference in towing capability. You can also order p285/70/17 lighter and not as rough as the lt version of the same tire

greenheadkiller98

So basically none of the tires will make much difference, the Ps ride smoother and the LTs ride rougher, they both have strengths and weaknesses but none that will keep you from towing anything.

Fordfan2006

except price. Haha