Hey guys,
I know this has been hashed over before, but I would like some help from you all with "real world" experience with these setups.
I'm trying to decide between 19.5 or 22.5s for my 07 4x4 MegaCab. It is a 5.9 w/ Auto trans & 3:73 rear. I drive 95% on road and 5% off pavement (no hardcore 4 wheeling). I really like the look of the 22.5 setup but I have 3 main concerns:

1.) In the "real world", how will the added weight of the 22.5 setup affect front end component life? I know the direct fit 19.5 would be significantly lighter, but anyone have any input about how much lighter?
2.) Will the 36" tire drop RPMs too much w/ the auto? (Don't want to lug the engine at lower speeds.) Anybody else have this combo w/ 22.5s?
3.) Just how bad will my MPG be. I currently ave. 17.8 mpg actual. I drive 74 mph on the Interstate @ 2000 rpm.

With either the 19.5 or 22.5s I plan to get a Smarty JR. I think the 40 or 70 setting would work to compensate for the loss of acceleration due to the larger tires.

 

I wouldn't recomend the 22.5s for the auto with 3.73s, you will be lugging your engine at 70mph in OD.

 

I just ordered a set of six MKW forged aluminum 19.5x6.75's for $300 each..........I thought it was a pretty good price compared to Rickson etc.... with the MKW design you can use an aluminum wheel on the inside dual as well. I'll post a pic and impressions when they get here! http://www.mkwalloy.com/

 

I would recommend 19.5" with auto just for RPM's and the life of the transmission.

 

get the 22.5 than you actually have something ya know

 

I would say no to 22.5s and 3:73s with an auto.

 

How much differnet would it be with a 6 speed manual? I am thinking about getting a dually and running the 22.5's with a 3.73 and a 6 speed. Will it still tow good, or be lugging all the time?

 

I have 35" tires with 3.73 and auto and at 70 mph it is running at 1850 which is not lugging by no means. I'm not sure how much one inch would matter being that you are talking about running a 36" tire but I say go with the 22.5's if that is what you want because I don't think that you will be lugging.

 

A 6 speed is really set up perfect for 22.5s.

 

They acctually come out to 36.9", but the big issue is the weight. The big boys are heavy.

 

What about the wear/tear on parts? Is it affected more because of the heavier wheels? It may sound like a stupid question, but I too am thinking of going with a dually and adding the 22.5's would be one of the first few mods.

Rye, would you suggest the 6 speed with 3.73's or 4.10's for the bigger wheels?

 

One more question, do you need a lift kit?

 

4x4 don't and 2wd trucks need a 2" lift in the front.

 

I like my 19.5's. They are doing just as advertised. They really helped to take out the side to side roll with my camper on. I like the stiff sidewall when hitting all the pot holes on the roads for blow out resistance. I don't like the stiff sidewall when it comes to ride.

I think 22.5 are too big for a truck you use. (but I haven't used them) They look real cool on a grocery getter.

 

No lift on the 4wd, but a 2" leveling kit makes it look sweet. You will need the 2" leveling kit on the 2wd. 22.5s with a 6spd manual and 3.73 works very well. I have this setup and I have had no problems what so ever and I use the truck on the farm and also tow an 18ft car hauler quite often.