I think I'm gonna go ahead and buy the spacers and if I decide I don't need them then I'll just sell them.I figured that is my safest bet.

 

I might just put the 285's on and then decide on the spacer situation. I can always run the tires at 80psi to control sidewall bulging.

 

I am pretty sure you could run a 1/8-1/4" spacer on the factory lugs if a little clearance is needed. I wouldnt go off of my word though, do some more research before you decided

 

I'm already running a 1/4" spacer for the 265's. Not enough thread left to put another one. The space on the 265's is okay with 1/4". Have been using this set-up for 6 months now,towing here and there with no issues. I just dont know about the 285's. Will just have to try and see.

 

What kind of Cooper tires are you running now?? and how much space do you have in between tires with that 1/4 inch spacer?? I am thinking of using a 1/4 inch spacer too with either 265 or 285 cooper stt's.

 

I'm running Cooper ST's. There's not as much space as factory tires but I feel like its safe towing.My friends have run tires with less space on their 2nd gens for years and never had any problems towing(rubbing),I know I have more space than them(maybe 1/2 -3/4" loaded)It might be slightly more as I am guessing. I dont think the 285's will work , at least not loaded.

 

Where did you guys get your 1/4" spacers from???

 

Most tire shops can get them or ebay.I got a pair for $10 from my tire shop.

 

homewrecker, Me too, I'm running 265 ST's but without any spacer. Even with two forklifts on my 8500# dumping flatdeck trailer...they don't touch when inflated to 80psi. You just have to be careful not to get a stone caught between the tires. Ideally I wish I had an inch of spacing...but I love my 265's ....just wish they were 85 series so they had some height. Kerry

 

Kerry, do you have 17s or could you get 16s on an 03?

I know bfg makes (or did a few months ago) a 255/85/16 in the mt.

 

The heigth difference in the 285's and 265's is the only reason I'm considering the swap.Like you said,if only somebody would make a 265/85/17.