The Best Tire Size

[mjayn]

2010 Expedition XLT 4X4 Stock 18in rims no lift/leveling with the Pirelli 255/70/r18, need new tires.

80% unloaded, 20% pulling a 2500lb boat.

96% paved roads. 4% logging roads that are flat, lots of pebbles with occasional small ruts.


What are the advantages/disadvantages of the available sizes that fit r18 with no lift.

255/70/r18 stock

265/70/r18 .4 inches wider then stock .5in taller then stock

275/65/r18 .8 inches wider then stock

Should be adding other sizes to my list? (no lift, Keeping same rims)

Also what brand/model would be a good fit. Looking at the Michelin Defender vs LTX.

 

[cullinan18]

Based on your driving habits, I wouldn't see any need beyond a truck street tire. If you want a cosmetic change, then the world's your oyster.

Otherwise, stock size is perfectly adequate and tirerack.com is your friend.

 

[mjayn]

Does a wider tire have any advantages or disadvantages over a stock(thinner) tire. I am in Milwaukee area with the usual midwestern snow/slush/ice. I am leaning toward 275/65/r18 to get the nearly inch wider tire, but is wider an advantage?

 

[J Ski]

Does a wider tire have any advantages or disadvantages over a stock(thinner) tire. I am in Milwaukee area with the usual midwestern snow/slush/ice. I am leaning toward 275/65/r18 to get the nearly inch wider tire, but is wider an advantage?

Larger surface area will help in those crappier conditions but only disadvantage I would see is just the extra weight of the wider tires. I've got a 16 plati EL with readylift 3/2 lift kit and looking either 295/60/20, 305/55/20, or 35x11.50x20 on OEM wheels