Two beaten to death questions.....

[WarWagon]

Yes I've searched and read up, but I've been here a while so I'm asking these questions anyhow

I'm looking for some real time opinions on 255/85/16 tires vs say, 285/75/16 or 275/70/18. Are the 255's going to be too skinny and look ridiculous?? If you're running this size please chime in with opinions and pics.....or if you're against it as well.

Also, I have 290K on my '99 with no problems from the engine dept. I'm considering switching to synthetic. Not sure I see any drawbacks to it but my mind set has always been as long as you're running a good filter the oil isn't as big a deal; filter I'm using is the D3 and Pennzoil high mileage 5w30.

Thanks

 

[ponytl]

I'm considering switching to synthetic.... I would never consider not running it even in my lawnmower... even if it's not Mobil 1 it's still 10x better in my opinion... it's not that any of todays major brand oils are bad... it's just that I know how much better the synthetic is... it runs cooler which has to mean there is less friction... it last longer ie maintains it's design properties longer... 5k mile (used) synthetics have tested better than many new conventional oils... and it's cheaper to use... I never change it with less than 10k on it and it still looks and feels about new... at 10k... on sale I get a filter and oil for $25 ... that is only $5 more than conventional oil... why wouldn't you?

 

[FlammableFishie]

255s are called tall skinnies for a reason. They're 33s that are skinny. If that's what you're into, which some are, then go for it. Myself, I prefer fat tires and am moving from 285s to 315s soon. Also, moved from conventional to full synthetic a couple years ago. Zero issues. An interesting point to note on conventional vs. synthetic is the viscosity when new vs. ready-to-change: synthetic retains its original viscosity much better than conventional as miles are racked up meaning your engine will be better protected the closer you get to an oil change. Relevant video:

 

[montegofd3s]

225k on the motor. I run mobile1 full synthetic with no problem, and I change my oil every 8000 miles.

 

[Placemotorsports]

IMO 255's look a little skinny on the 100, it's a rather piggly vehicle.

 

[Sandroad]

The Tire Rack has only 2 tires in 255/85-16, so even if there are others made, your choice will be extremely limited. If you're buying tires based on looks, go to your local well-stocked tire store and ask to look at some size options next to your truck.

Even if you've been on the forum for a while, you're a brave person to invoke the religious-like fervor around oil. There be dragons. Let sleeping dragons lie.

 

[Squatchy Adventures]

231k on the clock. Run 295's with Pennzoil Platinum 5-30 full synthetic high mileage every 5k. Not a chirp heard from the engine so far. My opinion on tires on 100's is that its better to go wide but also keep it under the fender well.

A good alternative is regular full synthetic with a quart of Lucas substitute for high mileage application. Everything loves Lucas.

 

[bucfl]

I also looked into the skinnier tire but just did not look right. I use M1 EP with M1 filter. Started with 10k interval but this oil change coming up ill be extending to 15k.

 

[jclarke450]

My opinion....255s. I looked into them. Not enough choices. No real benefit if you're away from multiple sources for replacement.

Oil. I run Mobil 1 extended protection. 15k change intervals. I have had it tested on each vehicle I run it on and have always been impressed. It could go longer but I'd say 15k is long enough! Any one who questions it has not done enough research!

 

[WarWagon]

The Toyo Open Country MT 255/85/16 is a sweet tire but I do fear it will be too narrow. I keep trying to find reasons to get away from 285/75/16 but it's becoming difficult to justify doing so.

285/75/16 Cooper ST Maxx possibly.

 

[sean2202]

The 255 would be a good snow tire for my northern friends.
I have heard good things about those coopers from a few folks.
Another good factor to switch to full syn is it flows better on those ice cold winter mornings.

 

[WaterCruiser]

wider = improved flotation & slow wheeling traction, FWIW

 

[ihadmail]

I have 215k on my odometer and have been running Rotella T6 synthetic since I bought the truck. I've seen no adverse affects from running it vs anything else.

I also run a 5k mile oil change interval and don't sweat it a bit if I run over that some. I've seen lots of oil reports showing a 7-9k recommended change interval.