FJ Cruisers of Northern California

Tire Help Please

Ok, I know I keep asking for help with tires, but everytime I do research, I get confused.

I've decided on the tire I want (Nitto Terra Grappler), but I don't know about the size or other specifications.

I originally wanted to stay with stock 265/70R17 (just for gas mileage driving between school and home, saving a bit of money on the tires, and being able to use my spare). Then some people are telling me to go up to 285/70R17 (since I have a 2.5" lift). But I was looking at Total Chaos and their 3.5" long tracel lift recommended a tire size of 285. So what's confusing me is why would a larger lift recommend that tire size and people are telling me I can fit the same size on a smaller lift (I don't really know how to explain how I'm confused).

Also, people are telling me for the load rating to go with D, but a tire guy told me I could stick with a passenger tire. I have passenger tires on now and they haven't failed me yet. The passenger Nitto's have a bit less of a weight rating, but higher speed rating than that of the E rated Nitto's (can't find D).

I'm looking on TireBuyer.com and this is the info I have obtained:

[LT=light truck tire, P=passenger tire, L&S=load & speed rating]

265/70R17

LT -- L&S: 121R (3,197 lbs / 106 mph) -- $179.19/tire (x4 = $716.76)

P -- L&S: 113S (2,536 lbs / 112 mph) -- $129.23/tire (x4 = $516.76)

285/70R17

LT -- L&S: 126R (3,750 lbs / 106 mph) -- $204.19/tire (x4 = $816.76)

P -- L&S: 117S (2,833 lbs / 112 mph) -- $180.59 (x4 = $722.36)

So, which is the best tire that I should get? Remember, I need to know if the 285 size will still fit (and keep decent wheel travel) and I'm looking to keep the price low.

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Permalink Reply by Andy on March 9, 2010 at 1:42am

Im currently running the Nitto Terra Grapplers and couldnt be happier. ive got the 285-65-18s id go for it man i got 5 for 1,343 set and balanced from America Tire

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Permalink Reply by Markie Sharkie on March 9, 2010 at 12:21pm

Boy it's a good thing I'm getting these... I was just looking at my tires and offroading sure has taken a toll on them. There's some chunks missing near the sidewalls and a small amount of uneven tread-wear.

Those Dunlop AT20s sure do take a beating though. Pretty decent tire for stock.