Need Help - tire replacement size
 

I need to replace my tires on my truck. Need advice if the following combination will work:

2003 Dodge 3500 4x4 DRW Crewcab (stock height)

I've had the present tires for 50k miles. The OEM tires are Goodyear GSA 235/80/17. I have rotated the tires every 6k miles, no complaints about wear. The only problem occurs is when I go to the sand dunes with my quads. The tires need to have an aggressive and slightly larger. I tow a Formula Boat @ 15k+ lbs.

I have been looking at the BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A® KO LT265/70/R17/E. I think the front tires will fit with no problems, my concern is the rears. Does anyone use this size on their rig? Would I have to use spacers on the rear wheels? Do these tires last? How about LT 285/70/R17/D?

Oh, forgot to mention that I have stock rims with the sport package trim. Thanks for the help, great site!

I have the BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A® 315/75/18's on my 06 on stock rims and they drive great. The only thing is that they aren't REAL aggressive. I don't know how they will do in sand. Also if the fronts work then the back should work as well. Those wheels don't turn. The problem mostly is the front with steering clearances. As far as the wear and tear they are rated I think at 50,000 miles.

You have multiple problems with the DRW and the 265 tires. First, they are too wide for the narrow rims for proper fit. Second, most likely, they will rub in the rear.

I agree with Jkitterman. Just because the rear does not turn will not mean the tires will work. Having dual tires means the load capacity of the tire is lower than a SRW due to the heat build up. Having a more aggressive tire will also tend to require spacers to create more clearance when the tires sidewalls flex. Check out the magazine Diesel Power online archieves to find anarticle about replacing tires on a 98 dodge dually. They have lots of good info in that article. You could also find out if a certain tire will fit your Dodge by going to a reputable tire store and ask to see a tire brand fitment guide for Dual Rear Wheels. Otherwise go to Dodges Bodybuilder.com site and look up the 2006 DRW tire and wheel specifications since the 2003-2006 model truck were pretty much the same when it came to the chassis.

Shawn

I got 285/70/17 Firestone M/T's on my DRW. Have to use spacers in the back. Not real expensive. Old lady picked them up for me.