265/70/17 or 275/70/17?

[TXYukon1]

Hey guys, I'm trying to decide on some BFG's AT's for my 2012 Yukon SLT and looking for some advice regarding size. I'm not dead set on putting a leveling kit on, but, am considering.

Stock size is 265/70/17 and measure 31.6. Next size up is 275/70/17 and measure 32.2. Would the 275 fit without leveling? Also if I do stick with stock size (265) and decide to level (only looking at 1/2-1 in.) would they look to small?

Any input would be appreciated.

 

[Sarge]

Get the bigger, should be fine. My stock size looked horrible leveled.

 

[TheAutumnWind]

Get the bigger tire

 

[01Konvict]

Get 285/70r17 toyo at 2

 

[iLikeEggs]

Depends on what you like. The wider the tire, the more rolling resistance, ie-friction/reduced fuel economy/increased hydroplaning. Yes, the wider the tire, the more susceptible it is to hydroplaning.
While wider,larger tires have their advantages off road, how much time do you spend off road? While the bigger profile looks awesome in most cases, your drive train does work harder to turn the larger tires. Do the math. How much more money will you now spend to compensate for the lost HP at the rear wheels because of the larger tires?
The stock 265's aren't exactly small or incapable tires. Just depends what kind of tire you buy. A standard street/Hwy tread design will be worthless off road or in snow. Going with an AT or load range "E" tire instead will definitely get you places. I decided to go with the Michelin Defender Load range E on mine. I run 60psi in them. They are awesome. No, they won't get through six feet of mud but you've got to know your limitations (sometimes). But that's why God made chains and winches.
Also think about replacement availability. If you're running stock sizes and are far from home, chances are you will be able to find a replacement more easily if you need one.
And yes, I do have that surgically rectally inverted broom stick. (haha beat you all to it!).

Cheers.

 

[MichaelSE]

Get 285/70r17 toyo at 2

I'm with you here, 285s or 33s on leveled NNBS fill out the wheel well better than anything else.

 

[TXYukon1]

Thanks guys, I ended up just going with the stock size (265) since I decided not to spend the extra money on the leveling kit. I will say even at the stock size the new BFG's totally enhance the look of the truck and it looks great.

I'm trying to figure out the best tire pressure to put in them though and can't figure it out. I did email BFG and they recommended 45 psi to me, which just seems high when the max is at 50 psi?

I put them at 40 psi last night and driving to work this morning I felt almost every bump and did not ride that smooth. I had them before at ~33-34 psi and the ride was much smoother, but, I just don't know if that's correct for wearing purposes?

Any insight would be helpful.

 

[Zed 71]

I'm trying to figure out the best tire pressure to put in them though and can't figure it out. I did email BFG and they recommended 45 psi to me, which just seems high when the max is at 50 psi?

I put them at 40 psi last night and driving to work this morning I felt almost every bump and did not ride that smooth. I had them before at ~33-34 psi and the ride was much smoother, but, I just don't know if that's correct for wearing purposes?

Any insight would be helpful.

Complete the chalk test to determine the optimal tire pressure. Rub chalk on a section of each tire tread and drive straight on level ground for ~100 ft and check the chalk. If the chalk is worn off evenly, the pressure is good. If the chalk is worn in the center then there is too much air. If the chalk is worn on the sides there is not enough air. Keep adjusting pressure until you can get the chalk to evenly wear off.

 

[fishingwizard]

I was told that the 265 number is the width of the tire and the 70 is the height...? On my burb I have the 275/60/R20s and they are ~ 33" tall but they are a little skinnier than the 285s (~12.50" wide) so I DONT rub on any of my corners.

 

[iLikeEggs]

265 is the section wisth from sidewall to sidewall when the tire is inflated on the rim, not the actual width of the tread. So yes, you can have two identically sized tires with two different tread widths. That is simply a factor of design. A lot of people don't like that fact but it's true.
The 70 is the aspect ratio of the tire. This simply indicates that the height of the tire from the top of the rim to the top of the tread is 70% of the width (the first number, 265). That last number in P=Metric sizing is the rim. IE- 17 means a 17inch rim. "P" in P-Metric sizing indicates Passenger car tire. "LT" would indicate that the tire is designated for Light Truck. IE- LT265/70r17 vs P235/75R15. The "R" before the rim size designates that it's a Radial tire.
As far as your inflation, always go with the OEM recommended inflation from the sticker on the door jamb. If you are running load range E tires, check what the tire manufacturer recommends. I run 60 PSI on my Michelin Defenders load range E's. And yes, the more PSI you put in the tires, the harder they will ride. Tires are the first line of suspension on a vehicle. They affect your ride quality, absolutely. Standard load range tires will also bulge in the center if they are over inflated, resulting in premature wear in the center of the tire and increased hydroplaning potential. Under inflated tires will wear evenly on both outer edges. The danger with under inflated tires is excessive heat build up.