I'm trying to better understand all this stuff around load ratings.

Some background, I have a 2005 3500 LWB 4x4. I'm currently running LT285/70R17 Toyo Open Country AT's. As I understand things now, my GAWR is 6200 lbs, my tires are E rated to 3750 lbs. So if I understand things correctly, per wheel I'm 3100lbs per axle side and 3750 lbs per tire, so my tires can hold more than my axles.

I currently tow a 12,500 lbs (fully loaded) fifth wheel toy hauler, which I probably won't be keeping. I'm going to probably a TT toy hauler or camper not sure yet. I plan to stay within my GVWR but it could be close depending on the camper.

I'm in the market for new tires. Toyo Open Country A/Ts or M/Ts. I pulling on a leveling kit and want to go with 35" tires. I have a 6sp G56 manual, so I'm not worried about the tire size.

Now the question. I know I will be putting an E rated tire on my truck but I've started to do some looking and noticed that with rims, they are rated any where from 3000 to 3500 lbs depending on manufacturer. And E rated tires depending on size, 17, 18, or 20 and A/T vs. M/T. start at 3000 lbs and go up.

Do I get anything by going with a higher rated rim when both are over the GAWR?

Will I notice any ride difference in a E rated tire that is say 3100 lbs vs 3700 lbs in a loaded or unloaded scenario?

My original plan was H2 wheels and 35x12.50R17 M/Ts. But have been looking more at the 18's and 20's as there are more 35" E rated tires but they seem to have a lower load rating than the 17's. And I found a deal on some used 20's.

Thanks,
Josh

 

It's my understanding that the GAWR is set by Dodge because of the factory tires used. The rear axle that is used in the trucks is either a 10k or 11.5k axle. So, your axle isn't the limited factor.

 

That's because there is less side wall to hold a load with a 20" wheel than a 17" wheel. If you are going to be close to the trucks max than get the tire and rim combo to hold the most amount of weight with the size tire you want. Sure a 17" isn't as cool as a 20" if you like that kind of thing. Personally I would rather have more rubber than rim.