I have a 99 F150 4x4, stock height. I am purchasing new wheels and tires. KMC Rockstar 18x9 and they recommend 285/60/18 which is the same height as my stock tires and just slightly wider. If I could afford to lift the truck now, I would. I am buying the Nitto Terra Grappler. Can I fit the LT/285/65/18 without have any problems other than spedometer? This is a daily driver truck so I don't want any problem but I would like to install bigger tires.
I posted another thread under the "suspension" catagory about this same issue, but different options since I want to lift the truck for bigger tires but can't afford it now.

 

Eric - are you not complaining that you lack performance? -installing larger tires is only going to make things worse. Gearing will help, but you are budget-constrained, correct?

Stay stock diameter until you have yer per issues sorted ( I'll bet you have 3.55's) - you can check the diff tag ad/or door sticker and decode the ratio from there using the decoders here: http://www.fordf150.net/howto/ in the Troubleshooting section...

MGD v5.0

 

I know about the slight performance loss. The Nitto 33" is only one inch taller than my factory tire, as you know, so I hope I don't see a diffence. The difference in tire rotations per miles is less than 4%. I think I will have to deal with the performance loss for now, depending how noticable, then get the power back. I was thinking that lifting the truck would be my next project in some time. Now I am thinking performance is next and if I can feel a loss with the 33's (if I go with them, probably will) and gearing is the best option then that maybe next on my list. I do not install gears so I have a friend that owns a mechanic shop so I get fair prices. Can you reply to my "gear" thread when you get a chance. Thanks for all your help!!

 

They will fit easily. You may have to trim a little plastic off the front bumpers lower valance for clearance. You could also use a 305/60-18 (33x12.50).

 

You read my mind about even bigger tires. So I have 3 options and the pricing is below. I noticed when I was looking for any clearance issues, I noticed two possible on the front, but I don't know how much the stock suspension travels. Increasing diameter, it may be close to the bottom corner of the front bumper on turns. Currently I have 1.25" clearance when I turn the wheel, so that should be fine with either of the bigger tires unless there is any flexing. If I increase the tire width a lot, it may hit part of the suspension. I think the part is a connector for the upper control arm, it is vertical and at the top of the tire in the center. Right now I have 7/8" clearence. The 305's are about 1.5 wider that stock, so if it sticks out 3/4" on the inside I think it will rub. Do you foresee this problem? Any easy fix or should I just go with the 285. The 305 saves me money too.
If I go with a 305/60R/18, I have to go with a Nitto Terra Grappler due to price. It is also a P. Here are all 3 prices.
Nitto LT285/65/18 $234
BFG LT285/65/18 $248
Nitto 305/60/18 $207

 

You are not gonna rub any suspension components.

 

I have 305/65/17 on 17x10s and with the front end maxed or even 2 turns down they dont rub, valance is cut and molded mudflap is cut, I have an add a leaf in the back but they didnt rub before the add a leaf, I just did it for ride height, I hate the 'cali' look.

 

Thanks for all the replies. I think the 305/60/R18 will either rub or be too close for comfort. My buddy looked at it tonight and he said there is a good chance it will rub. I haven't made my final decision yet. I will order everything tomorrow morning. I sent an email to Nitto so I want to see what they say. These 305's are about an 1.5" wider than stock and when you split that on each side, I don't have 3/4" clearence when I turn the wheel hard, between the inside of the tire and the suspension. I don't mind doing some minor trimming on the bottom corner of the front bumper valance.
I will probably go with the LT285/65/18 since I know I won't have any problems unless I find information proving the 305's will NOT be any problem without doing any suspension miodification and/or lifting the truck. The LT285 costs more but I am getting a sturdier tire too.

 

I put 285/75/16's on my 98 4x4 and have had them for over a year.. never have had a problem with them rubbing They added roughly 1" lift from Stock height.

the only Issue I found is the sped-o reads 10 under the actual (km/hr). I never paid attention when I had stock tires on but as I passed one of them cop radars that tell you your speed it was off by 10.. then I used my GPS to double check.

If they are off, your best to buy an EDGE evolution, it can allow your alter the size and re calibrate the computer for it.

 

I finally ordered the tires last night. I went with the Nitto Terra Grapplers LT285/65/18 (33"). I decided not to go with the 305's because they were 1" wider, which wasn't necessary for performance, I just liked the look. I also didn't want to deal with any issues or suspension adjustments then probably have a rougher ride. The 285's are LT's and the 305's are P's so I also got a better, stronger tire for my truck that does haul a lot of weight every so often. I have enough problems going on, I don't need any more.
I already have the Hypertech power programmer so I know about the speedo issue and I hope that will be easily resolved with the Hypertech but thanks for the heads up.
I like your front grille. One of these days I will get one. I want the same style, in either some type of black or billet aluminum finish. Easy to install? Any advice on ordering one?

 

The 10ply is a huge plus if your hauling or in construction sites.. ive got many screws in my lugs i just pull them out and thats the end of that.

Now for the billet grill, I got it for 5$ at a Canadian tire.. Its like Walmart but more focus on hardware/sports/home/auto. and its metal/Chrome 2 years on not a bit of rust.

Installing is tricky, the stock one comes off but you have to break the heat melted clips that held them in place. (remove the front frame that covers the outter edges of the lights/grill) then I just screwed it into the plastic framing but getting a drill in there is hard will need one of tho's small ones that get into tight places. then just put the framing back on. Simple. haha.