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Old 03-15-2018, 11:42 PM
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Originally Posted by MyNameIdeasWereTaken
We have this thread on other forums I'm a part of. We'll see if it takes off, but it's nice having one thread where people can ask stupid/common questions and get quick answers without dirtying up the rest of the forum.

I'll start:
What is the maximum tire size you can go on a stock 4x2 with stock wheels? Every thread I read gives different answers.
(I know all about gear ratios, power loss, speedometer errors, I just want to know about tire size)

Seems like 265/75 16 is the preference. I'm currently on 265/70 16 and it looks like I could fit a lot more.
I've seen some people say they fit 285/75 16 without rubbing.

Is the rubbing concern with suspension components or just at full lock? Share pics if you have them.
I think the varying answers are because the older these trucks get the saggier the suspension can become. Some people can't fit bigger wheels cz they need to update their suspension components... others might have a wider rim or more backspacing. There's really a ton of variables on what people are able to fit.

A suggestion would be if you have a spare rim or can buy a cheap rim from the junkyard, run down to discount tire and see if they can test fit a tire you're interested in. Usually they have a decent selection of used tires and I'm sure if you let them know they'll be getting your business they'd be happy to slap an old used wheel on your rim so you can see what it looks like. Answer is always no if you don't ask, may just give em a call to see if they will before you waste a trip down there. Other than that if you're on 265s now, go 275 next time and if you're still wanting more step it up the next time you need tires. Or gamble on 285 and sell em if they don't fit lol
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Old 03-16-2018, 02:48 AM
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There is also the tread design which with dictate if a tire can turn and not rub against the frame or fender well panels. Agressive treads vs all weather treads. Put on what you think looks good and forget about diameter. Who cares if they are 33,35 or 37's?
Old 03-16-2018, 08:02 AM
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Originally Posted by fordguy2100
I think the varying answers are because the older these trucks get the saggier the suspension can become. Some people can't fit bigger wheels cz they need to update their suspension components... others might have a wider rim or more backspacing. There's really a ton of variables on what people are able to fit.
This is exactly why I want a current opinion. Yes, I've read through maybe 20 threads on tire sizes on these trucks and some people are saying 265/75, some say 265/70, some say 285/75. People are a lot more bold and experimental with tire sizes now than they were in 2003 when these trucks were still new. The recent threads I've read almost always link to an older threads.

I'm on a stock suspension, but it's not the original from 347k miles ago.
I don't plan on changing wheels, but I'm willing to add small spacers if that's the only hold up.

Thanks for the suggestion. I might try one of the local tire shops on a slow weekday.

Originally Posted by W3BY
There is also the tread design which with dictate if a tire can turn and not rub against the frame or fender well panels. Agressive treads vs all weather treads. Put on what you think looks good and forget about diameter. Who cares if they are 33,35 or 37's?
That's another thing that slightly concerning, is the inconsistency of tire manufacture's widths. On my C30, it's tucking tire with a 2mm gap between anything it could be rubbing on under full load. It took a lot of work when I switched to 235 Federal tires, which are actually wider than the 245 Continentals and Michelins I had before. So I'm sure there will be varying results between tire brands and (like you said) tread patterns.

I definitely don't care about the bragging rights of what size tires is on my truck, I just want it to look OEM+.
I'm on 265/70 right now. A 265/75 would be about 1/2" taller sidewall, which doesn't look like it will be an issue under any circumstances.

A 285/70 would be close to the same overall diameter as a 265/75, but with a bit more width. Measuring my space at full lock, I think the added width and sidewall bulge will fit. But I'm curious on real world experiences of people running this tire size on a stock setup. A 285/75 will be really close.

I know some tire shops offer a 30 day satisfaction guarantee, but I don't know if opting for a non-stock tire size would void this. Something to ask.
Old 03-16-2018, 09:37 AM
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Frankly, seriously, - I've never understood why you want larger tires on a 2WD...unless perhaps you were lifting the truck for that blaja 1000 look. Or have as much fun as Robby Gordon does, -


Otherwise , it's not worth the wear and tear along with the other repercussions...what it does to the torque and power. But yea, if your lifting the vehicle (2WD) to fit larger tires, then I can see it more. The look is much better, cool and some don't want a 4WD. But there's no talk of that here, just over-stuffing a 2wd wheel well...which doesn't have any appeal at all IMO, and definitely not worth what's sacrificed.

Last edited by Jbrew; 03-16-2018 at 10:22 AM.
Old 03-16-2018, 01:53 PM
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I agree that bigger tyres are sexy on a truck but to harm other components, lose get-up-n-go an the cost of larger tires vs smaller ones//// I will be getting my truck in May or June when I get home and one of my upgrades will be AT/TA tires, it has Michelin tires now which are only a year old so it will be awhile before I do that upgrade.

Great idea about a place to post without starting a new thread.......

Here is my symptons and what previous owner said. Moon roof is leaking onto front passanger seat. Owner said it is a broken track, not allowing the roof to close completely. He bought kit/parts to repair $200+ and will supply with truck.
My question is, after reading many threads about moon roofs, do I need to worry about 'clocking' the actuator motor to the new frame replacement?

Thanks for listening, Good Luck with tires and post before and after pics.



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