F250 Tire Choice

[davidv]

I’m starting to build out my 2008 F250 Diesel that carries a Hallmark camper. I’ve installed ride-rite airbags and bought 18” ProComp 7032 rims. My next step is tires and I’m torn between BFG A/T 285/65R18 and leaving the suspension alone or BFG A/T 305/65R18 and lifting the front 2 inches.

My concern with the lift is that I will take a hit on gas mileage and compromise some road manners on windy (paved) mountain roads.

Any experience would be appreciated.

 

[Regcabguy]

Your rig is super heavy like mine. Whatever your choice,make it an E-rated one with a high load capacity.

 

[DirtyDog]

I've been happy with my BFG 285's on my F250.

 

[redthies]

I don't think a 2" leveling kit and a 1" taller and 1/2" wider tire are going to change your mileage or handling and wind resistance any noticeable amount. On the highway the "gear reduction" effect of the extra height might even help fuel economy. The leveling kit always helps when the weight of the diesel starts the springs wearing out.

 

[cnynrat]

We've got an F350 diesel that carries a Bigfoot 2500 10.6 camper some of the time. We still have the stock 16" wheels on the truck, and have been running Michelin's all terrain tire, the LTX in 265/75 R16 on it. We've been very happy with this tire choice. It's a milder tire than the BFG ATs, but then we don't do any aggressive wheeling with this truck. We get good mileage out of these tires, and they balance very easily. If they offer a size for your 18" wheels, and it fits your expected use for the truck you might give the Michelin's some consderation. I think they are a better quality tire than the BFGs.

 

[dieselcruiserhead]

It actually will change your mileage noticeably to about 12-13 with the bigger set up. Mine was set up with a big leveling kit (which I mostly removed) and ran 285s and I was super happy. Mileage was about 14-15 with stock tune, a little better with the TST 6 position chip from http://www.cptrucks.com/ (who are awesome) and noticeably more power as well.

Here is a photo... I also "overlanded" as much as I would ever care to with such a truck, and this size was great.

 

[Redline]

I'm not a big fan of taller wheels but understand they are the present and future, many trucks won't fit smaller than 17" wheels these days.

IF you decide to lift the truck and since you already have the 18" wheels I would suggest you look at the 285/75R18 tire size. 35" and not too wide.

 

[Redline]

Lift and tires will both impact MPG.

snip...

My concern with the lift is that I will take a hit on gas mileage and compromise some road manners on windy (paved) mountain roads.

Any experience would be appreciated.

 

[Marc1]

I have an F350 4x4 diesle and think the 285/75/18 Toyo MT is a great fit.

 

[redthies]

It actually will change your mileage noticeably to about 12-13 with the bigger set up. Mine was set up with a big leveling kit (which I mostly removed) and ran 285s and I was super happy. Mileage was about 14-15 with stock tune, a little better with the TST 6 position chip from http://www.cptrucks.com/ (who are awesome) and noticeably more power as well.

Here is a photo... I also "overlanded" as much as I would ever care to with such a truck, and this size was great.

I guess it is all relative. For a guy like who just came off a 15,000 km road trip in a 460 powered truck with 35s on it and towing a 3500 lb trailer! I think I got a best of 9 mpg! And I wonder why my banker hates me???:elkgrin: