Analysis Paralysis - 285/75/16 vs 275/70/18

[clindsay123]

Hi all,

My current SL General Grabbers ATX (275/70r18) are vibrating my truck like crazy and I just got a flat on a VERY mellow trail so it's time to replace. I got them cheap used so makes sense that they suck.

I'm stuck between the following options. My main sticking point is wondering if I should switch to the 16" wheel tire combo. I think the 18s look better.
Does 16" wheel really make that big of a difference in the 33" in tire range for moderate off road or on road comfort? Appreciate any insights from those that have run both sizes.

285/75/16 Ko3 - C load
275/70/18 Ko3 - E load
*also open to Falken AT4W

My LC is built to an extent with steel front/rear bumpers, drawers, sliders, winch, roof rack, winch.
I would guess my permanent weight is around 6200 lbs and maybe 6400-6800 when loaded down for a trip.
This is my weekend / adventure rig and I use it on moderate trails in the west mostly in the Californian deserts and mountains. Therefore, I do value a tough tire for the rocks and want to avoid punctures while also being comfortable enough for long stretches of highway.

Thanks!

 

[efjayatee]

Sorry i have FZJ80 but wheel and tires are personal preference no matter what vehiclesyou own......
I like 16s because of more "meat" on sidewall. More protection when airing down.
My 80 has 315s on stock 16 with yokohamas MT (an overkill) 10ply
The 2nd 80 has 17s with 37 mickeys AT 8plyand weighs about 5lbs less than the 315s.
3rd 80 is on 285s AT Thunderer on stock 16s and stock height. 10ply

The 37s for tougher terrains and the 315s are for firetrails when camping. The 80 with 285s is to daily.

For reference

 

[QUIENYO]

I don't have any pics of sweet LC's but if you're considering Falkens, check out the Wildpeak R/T 01's, they come in E range and are 10 ply. I have them on my daily but I've been using that for my hunting rig and they hold up well.

 

[clindsay123]

Sorry i have FZJ80 but wheel and tires are personal preference no matter what vehiclesyou own......
I like 16s because of more "meat" on sidewall. More protection when airing down.
My 80 has 315s on stock 16 with yokohamas MT (an overkill) 10ply
The 2nd 80 has 17s with 37 mickeys AT 8plyand weighs about 5lbs less than the 315s.
3rd 80 is on 285s AT Thunderer on stock 16s and stock height. 10ply

The 37s for tougher terrains and the 315s are for firetrails when camping. The 80 with 285s is to daily.

For reference

View attachment 4180207View attachment 4180208View attachment 4180209

well...this is just making we want an 80 series.

 

[GTV]

295/75's

 

[efjayatee]

well...this is just making we want an 80 series.

Add a Turbo and its a beast, even with 37s.