Smaller Wheels for Softer Ride

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Michael D Morris

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I have a 2019 Expedition Max Limited with 22" wheels. I'm considering installing smaller diameter wheels with higher sidewall tires to make the ride softer. Has anyone done this and was the difference noticeable? Would you do it again?
 

Ccolvin029

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It does make a difference. Same thing went from 22" down to 18". The tires are more aggressive with heavier side walls but still soaks up smaller bumps better. It will loose some of the sporty feel just due to the side wall lean when cornering, but if you don't drive it like an Indy car you probably wont notice it. These are 285 75 R18 (skinny 35") that came off my 250 Tremor. Fuel Rebel rims, 3/2 level kit.

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Ellison Brown III

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I have a 2019 Expedition Max Limited with 22" wheels. I'm considering installing smaller diameter wheels with higher sidewall tires to make the ride softer. Has anyone done this and was the difference noticeable? Would you do it again?
What’s the plan for the 22’s when you take them off?
 

gural

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i got 20 summer and 18 winter
i feel the diffrence - especially on low quality roads - car flowes

in summer car has better grip and is stiffer
 

ROBERT BONNER

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Another benefit of smaller wheels that I have enjoyed is less sediment build up inside the rims. My old F150 with 20" rims used to fill with mud when off road that had to be powerwashed out before highway driving to avoid abusively unbalanced wheels. No such problem with my 2020 FX4 with factory 18's driving the same roads under the same conditions. No doubt I'm giving up some lateral G's on pavement; but, maybe I'll also be getting a few more miles between front wheel bearing changes....
 

Laporterican

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More sidewall makes a huge difference. My wife had a 2018 Grand Cherokee with 20s rode like crap, I put on the biggest Wildpeaks I could fit, which helped. Wife now has a 2022 Timberline, the 18s and bigger tires ride SO MUCH BETTER! We live on a gravel road in the foothills of CO, if you spend any time off-pavement, I’d strongly suggest 18s. We’re planning on putting bigger tires on the Timberline, the Wranglers are absolute garbage in deep snow.
 

Rtorres001

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I recently switched from 20" wheels to these 18" and new Michelin LTX A/T3. The ride difference is AMAZING! I would highly recommend it. My son did the same with his 2019 Ford F150, but he went with Cooper tires - same great result. I also changed out the factory lug nuts, which is something you will want to do also.
 

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bobnely

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I just did the swap last week, took off the Special Edition 22’s and put on 18’s just for a softer ride and E Load rating.

Still need to do the 3/2 lift and change the sway bars.
 

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