Tire Question

[Airdale]

Originally Posted by Daebado

So I notice yours are not LT's. Interesting as I just got done talking to TireRack and they advise against putting LT's on a half ton pickup. The TireRack guy says the standard Defenders (like yours) will handle anything my truck can tow. This goes against some of what I've been reading so now I'm not sure what to believe!

They may have credibility. Does the vehicle manufacturer recommend/approve replacing the "P"s with "LT"s?

Passenger tires have UTQG (grading) whereas Light Truck tires do not. That may/might be a factor in the Tire Rack statement.

[rsdata]

OK... last picture I am going to post...
Defender LTX M/S on my 2014 RAM Bighorn... tire guy recommending against is wrong...

[frank4711]

"but have always felt the truck could have felt more steady for lack of a better description" your quote you answered your own question .... Tire Rack verified the LT's were a good exchange for my 275 55 R20 to 265 60 R20 ... he said they would be fine ... as I said they are a big upgrade for towing ... good luck

[Daebado]

Originally Posted by rsdata

OK... last picture I am going to post...
Defender LTX M/S on my 2014 RAM Bighorn... tire guy recommending against is wrong...

Frank, that pic shows it is a Defender LTX but that's just the model of the tire. These come in LT and P-metric (or "passenger"). I noticed the size of your tire in your other pic didn't have a P in front of it but it didn't have LT, either. Not sure what you actually have.

[frank4711]

MICHELIN
DEFENDER LTX M/S
Highway All-Season
Size: LT265/60R20 121/118R E
Style: Blackwall
Eco Focus: Michelin Total Performance
Load Range: E
Serv. Desc: 121/118R .... here it is Thanks Frank Off-Road: 8.1
Wet: 9.2
Dry: 9.3
Winter/Snow: 8.4
Comfort: 9.1
Treadwear: 8.8
8.8 / 10 Rating on Tire Rack 8.8 out of 10

[Daebado]

Originally Posted by frank4711

MICHELIN
DEFENDER LTX M/S
Highway All-Season
Size: LT265/60R20 121/118R E
Style: Blackwall
Eco Focus: Michelin Total Performance
Load Range: E
Serv. Desc: 121/118R .... here it is Thanks Frank Off-Road: 8.1
Wet: 9.2
Dry: 9.3
Winter/Snow: 8.4
Comfort: 9.1
Treadwear: 8.8
8.8 / 10 Rating on Tire Rack 8.8 out of 10

Thanks Frank. Sorry to put you through all that! You have been very helpful and went way above and beyond and I do appreciate it.
I'm just trying to make sure I arm myself with all the information I can get as this is a rather large investment and if I get it wrong, I have to live with it for quite a long time!

[frank4711]

No problem glad to help hope it works out for you

[Daebado]

Originally Posted by frank4711

No problem glad to help hope it works out for you

Yeah, me too!

Get this... Tire Rack couldn't come up with a recommendation for an LT tire in my size other than a couple of all terrain models (one of which is the BF Goodrich TA K02 I was already looking at).
The guy told me if noise was an issue for me, to stay away from the A/T tires but couldn't give me any alternatives! He suggested I go with the Michelin in a P-metric.

Incredible!

[frank4711]

Originally Posted by Daebado

Yeah, me too!

Get this... Tire Rack couldn't come up with a recommendation for an LT tire in my size other than a couple of all terrain models (one of which is the BF Goodrich TA K02 I was already looking at).
The guy told me if noise was an issue for me, to stay away from the A/T tires but couldn't give me any alternatives! He suggested I go with the Michelin in a P-metric.

Incredible!

just had chat with them ... here it is Hi, how can I help you today?
frank at 17:10, Sep 17:
good
frank at 17:11, Sep 17:
Can I exchange a 275 60 R20 ... with a 265 60 R20
Gill at 17:09, Sep 17:
which one do you have now?
frank at 17:12, Sep 17:
the 275 60 R20 ...
Gill at 17:10, Sep 17:
That tire size has a shorter diameter than the original. You are free to use them if they meet the load carrying requirements of the vehicle. The odometer, speedometer and gearing, not to mention the look of the shorter tire in the fender well, are all changed though when doing so.
frank at 17:13, Sep 17:
so they will fit ...
Gill at 17:11, Sep 17:
yes ..... It will work ... I have had no issues with mine ...

[frank4711]

COOPER
DISCOVERER H/T PLUS
Street/Sport Truck All-Season
Size: 275/60R20 119T XL
Load Range: XL
Serv. Desc: 119T
These are a direct replacement for your P titres they are XL extra load max load 2998 at 50 psi that is more than you will ever need in your 1/2 ton .... Copper makes a good tire and rating is 8 out of 10 ... I ran them in my business 25 years .... I like the Michelin LT if you read thru again you will see alot on here do also ... best of luck

[Airdale]

I’m beginning to suspect The Tire Rack does not have a recommendation or optional designated tire size listing for replacement tires from Dodge for the OPs truck. They seem to be balking at taking the responsibility for replacement without vehicle manufacturer approval. They are a retailer that strives to follow all protocols.

Here are some excerpts from a USTMA document that sets the protocols I’m speaking of.

“ALWAYS check the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for the OE tire size, load capacity, inflation pressure, and speed rating information before replacing a tire with a different size and construction. It is not always possible to select the same tire size for a replacement tire. NEVER choose a tire of a smaller size or with less load-carrying capacity than the OE tire size at the specified vehicle tire placard pressure.”

“Replacing OE Passenger Tires with Light Truck Tires. Some vehicles, such as sport utility vehicles, vans, and pick-up trucks, may have passenger tires installed as original equipment. As previously stated, it is preferred that replacement tires should be the same OE size designation, or approved options, as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.”

“When replacing OE passenger tires with light truck tires, check with the vehicle manufacturer to be sure the rim/wheel is appropriate for the required higher inflation pressures. Check rim widths and rim load/inflation capacity; insure the valve stems are appropriate for the higher PSI rating of the LT tires.”

[frank4711]

Originally Posted by Airdale

I’m beginning to suspect The Tire Rack does not have a recommendation or optional designated tire size listing for replacement tires from Dodge for the OPs truck. They seem to be balking at taking the responsibility for replacement without vehicle manufacturer approval. They are a retailer that strives to follow all protocols.
Here are some excerpts from a USTMA document that sets the protocols I’m speaking of.

“ALWAYS check the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for the OE tire size, load capacity, inflation pressure, and speed rating information before replacing a tire with a different size and construction. It is not always possible to select the same tire size for a replacement tire. NEVER choose a tire of a smaller size or with less load-carrying capacity than the OE tire size at the specified vehicle tire placard pressure.”

“Replacing OE Passenger Tires with Light Truck Tires. Some vehicles, such as sport utility vehicles, vans, and pick-up trucks, may have passenger tires installed as original equipment. As previously stated, it is preferred that replacement tires should be the same OE size designation, or approved options, as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.”

“When replacing OE passenger tires with light truck tires, check with the vehicle manufacturer to be sure the rim/wheel is appropriate for the required higher inflation pressures. Check rim widths and rim load/inflation capacity; insure the valve stems are appropriate for the higher PSI rating of the LT tires.”

In my chat with tire rack they said the tire was fine don't know if that's a recommendation or not. I say putting a light truck tire on a light truck just sounds fine to me

[Iwannacamp]

The redneck way is to put the tire on it you want...as long as the load is equal or better and the rims will handle the inflation pressure. Can’t imagine the rims would be an issue.

I will check discount tire’s website

[Iwannacamp]

I had to guess at a couple things.... assuming...these are the no.1 non OEM rated rated selection. They are LT.

[Airdale]

Originally Posted by Iwannacamp

I had to guess at a couple things.... assuming...these are the no.1 non OEM rated rated selection. They are LT.

Attachment 215229

That 275/60R20 Michelin shown in the picture is a euro-metric passenger tire. Sometimes their specs will differ slightly when compared to the same sized P-Metric tires.

[CentralMePistol]

Originally Posted by Daebado

So is an E rated tire an LT? I'm not really familiar with the ratings system.

Coming back to the party a little late... I believe that LT's are for Light Trucks- or half tons. E rated tires typically come on heavier duty trucks such as 3/4's. E are more expensive and definitely heavier. But are much more rigid and have less "roll" side to side.

I have driven with both LT's and E's and strongly prefer the E. That being said I drive several thousand miles with a trailer every summer- so for me they are well worth it.

I may be off on some of this, there are so many different ratings and abbreviations. No matter what I would steer clear of P (passenger) tires and towing.

[frank4711]

Originally Posted by CentralMePistol

Coming back to the party a little late... I believe that LT's are for Light Trucks- or half tons. E rated tires typically come on heavier duty trucks such as 3/4's. E are more expensive and definitely heavier. But are much more rigid and have less "roll" side to side.

I have driven with both LT's and E's and strongly prefer the E. That being said I drive several thousand miles with a trailer every summer- so for me they are well worth it.

I may be off on some of this, there are so many different ratings and abbreviations. No matter what I would steer clear of P (passenger) tires and towing.

LT can be E rated or XL both can be called Light Truck in descriptions by tire company buy a tire that starts with LT ... I agree LT E rated the way to much improve your Ram it did mine ... I thought LT E tires would be overkill for my 1/2 ton I was so wrong ... Central is right!!

[Airdale]

The vehicle manufacturer has the sole responsibility for the selection of Original Equipment tires. I’m pretty sure they’re not going to be irresponsible with such selections for automotive vehicles.

The government regulations instruct them, in part, to select tires that are appropriate for each vehicle. There are tens of thousands of pick-up trucks fitted with passenger tires each year. Their manufacturers have the experiences needed to insure they are the best fitment for all road conditions that vehicle may be tasked to fulfill. If they foresaw a need for more sturdy tires they would have offered options. Installing replacement tires on that vehicle that do not meet vehicle manufacturer’s optional/approval recommendations will become the sole responsibility of the installer.


Reputable tire retailers are not going to install replacement tires onto a vehicle without the vehicle manufacturer’s approval. The risks are too high.

[frank4711]

Originally Posted by Airdale

The vehicle manufacturer has the sole responsibility for the selection of Original Equipment tires. I’m pretty sure they’re not going to be irresponsible with such selections for automotive vehicles.

The government regulations instruct them, in part, to select tires that are appropriate for each vehicle. There are tens of thousands of pick-up trucks fitted with passenger tires each year. Their manufacturers have the experiences needed to insure they are the best fitment for all road conditions that vehicle may be tasked to fulfill. If they foresaw a need for more sturdy tires they would have offered options. Installing replacement tires on that vehicle that do not meet vehicle manufacturer’s optional/approval recommendations will become the sole responsibility of the installer.


Reputable tire retailers are not going to install replacement tires onto a vehicle without the vehicle manufacturer’s approval. The risks are too high.

Info*at 14:31, Sep 18:Thank you for choosing to chat with us. A representative will be with you shortly.Info*at 14:31, Sep 18:You are now chatting with Jake.Jake*at 14:31, Sep 18:Hi, how can I help you today?* frank*at 14:34, Sep 18:hey good frank*at 14:35, Sep 18:here are 5 OE tires recommended but 75 total tires that will fit do I have to pick OE ?Jake*at 14:34, Sep 18:not necessarily, no.Jake*at 14:34, Sep 18:Are you looking for the smooth ride and long lasting All-Season tire or a more aggressive On/Off-Road All-Terrain tire?frank*at 14:37, Sep 18:want more load capacity when I am towing Jake*at 14:35, Sep 18:you could use an LT tire, those hold more air pressure and weight capacity.frank*at 14:38, Sep 18:that's what I was thinking ... Thanks This is another chat I had ... You can upgrade you truck tires to carry more load . 75 choices to replace my tires only 5 OE choices and they will sell me and install any of the 75 without question.

[Airdale]

Here is another point of view. It’s Hypothetical, of course.

A Vehicle owner drives into a nationally known tire retailer’s place of business and informs an employee he/she wants new tires. An installer will be dispatched to the vehicle to get the VIN number and info from the tire placard. The information will be fed into their computer system and a listing of vehicle manufacturer approved replacements will be displayed by brand and designated sizes.

That’s how it’s supposed to work.

I doubt very seriously that they will write a bill of sale for anything other than what’s on that list and register that sale with that VIN number.

On top of that Michelin would call it a misapplication of their tires.

Michelin Reference: https://www.tirerack.com/images/pdf/warranty/MI0619.pdf

Note: All Dodge would have to do is provide a statement that designated sizes equal to the OE tires in physical size and load capacity are approved.