New LC Owner 275/70-18 or 285/65-18?

[GM76]

Recently purchased a '06 LC with AHC and I'm trying to decide between these two tire sizes. Going to go with either Terra Grapplers or BFG ATs. I do not plan on lifting the truck until the AHC goes. It's a daily driver and the majority of the wheeling I do is on the beach. I've read through a bunch of threads and there seems to be some conflicting info on whether the 275/70-18 rubs. I definitely do not want the tires to rub. Am I splitting hairs here or should I even go with a 275/65-18 until I lift it? Any opinions or experience with theses sizes and brands on an AHC equipped rig will be appreciated.

 

[OregonLC]

Recently purchased a '06 LC with AHC and I'm trying to decide between these two tire sizes. Going to go with either Terra Grapplers or BFG ATs. I do not plan on lifting the truck until the AHC goes. It's a daily driver and the majority of the wheeling I do is on the beach. I've read through a bunch of threads and there seems to be some conflicting info on whether the 275/70-18 rubs. I definitely do not want the tires to rub. Am I splitting hairs here or should I even go with a 275/65-18 until I lift it? Any opinions or experience with theses sizes and brands on an AHC equipped rig will be appreciated.

For sand you'll want a wide tire for 'flotation', so I think common Mud theory would point you to the 285's. I'm very happy with the Terra G's. FWIW, I have 295/70R18's and have very slight rubbing on the back of the well when turning at moderate angles when the outside corner is loaded (in other words, it almost never rubs). The 285's would also keep you closer to stock gearing.

 

[Brock]

I have 285x65x18 on my rig....and am about 4mph off on speedo compared to GPS readings...and Ultra Gauge calibration.

I am running Nitto Trail Grapplers but every 285 or 33" tire is not created equal...some are under that size..some are close...and some are slightly larger.

 

[4Peanut]

...but every 285 or 33" tire is not created equal...some are under that size...some are close...and some are slightly larger.

Brock brings up an excellent point. And, FWIW, my 275/70-18 BFG AT KO's measure 33.25" at 50 PSI. YMMV.

 

[hangten]

Go bigger- and if you take of your runningboards- it makes them look even larger... Not really...

 

[GM76]

Definitely a good point Brock. Just priced both tires and it looks like the Nittos are about $50 cheaper a tire in 285/65 than the BFGs...probably going to go that route. I had great luck with a set of Nittos on my 4runner. Plus at $50 cheaper I'll do the spare too and still be under the BFGs. Has anyone run both in the sand and if so did one outshine the other?

 

[4Peanut]

Price per tire? Seller? I picked up five 275/70-18 BFG AT KO's from DiscountTires.com for $997.50 shipped three weeks ago.

 

[GM76]

Local tire place (Long Island, NY) $175 a tire for Nittos and $225 a tire for BFGs.