Does anyone know why Ford switched its tire size on the FX4 in '02 (265/70/17) to a smaller tire in '05 (255/70/17)?

 

they probably get the smaller size cheaper . look at my 04 xlt they put 235 17 s by hankook i have a 34000.00 dollar truck with .29 cents worth of tires on it

 

Unfortunately, you're probably correct - they likely got a better deal.

Either that, or the smaller/different tires slightly improved MPG.

Few cars these days come with what I'd consider quality tires from the factory.

 

Its a bummer b/c my cousin is a sales mgr. at Ford and can get me a brand new set (4) (take offs) for like 150 installed. The only problem is I don't want a smaller tire. He sends a lot of the trucks out to get lifted and new wheels, etc. before he sells them and has a lot of new tires left over.

I've said I'm going with the 285/70/17 bfg a/t's but when I heard of the offer he could get me I was willing to just stay with the same tires...but not if I have to go SMALLER!

Thanks for your input guys

 

Cheap...ford went cheap...my millage with lt 265/70 17 rugger trail T/A is the same as with the p235 75/17 Hancooks, and hancook is the only one that makes this size tire...next step up is a general tire, lT 255 75/17, I can't comment on the general tires..