I have an '02 F150 Screw with the 16" wheels. Stock tire size is a 255-70R 16 and the awful Generals are in need of replacement. I tow a car hauler several times a year over distances up to say, 300mi. and was interested in a somewhat larger tire that the stock Generals (car hauler has no brakes, wanted more tire contact - stock looks anemic as well). Has anyone tried going to a wider tire with a lower aspect ratio that will keep the diameter about the same? Say - a 285-65 R 16 or something that gives a similar diameter (30dia. vs. 30.5 in this case) so that I don't have to worry about the speedo being off too much.

I don't want to negatively affect fuel mileage if I can help it - 1-2mpg might be the biggest hit I would want to take.

Is this possible or should I look at a different (17" - 18") wheel along with the tires?

Thanks folks!

-LS

02 Screw
XLT
5.4
Tow package

 

You can easily go from stock size to the wider lower profile size. you won't notice the difference. If you decide to go to a 17 or 18 or even 20" rim/tire combo, then your tire choices will greatly improve, alone with nice new rims to look at!

rockafella
2002 F150 Supercrew FX4 rollin 22's

 

These are 285x60 on 18 inch rims. Nearly identical height as stock, but huge tire patch on the road...about 11 inches.

 

Here is a better view of the tire width.

 

the only bad thing about hauling a trailer and going with a tire with a low A ratio is that you are not gonna get the sidewall durability. if you are lucky you might find something in a 65 with a LT rating, but i'm not too sure. i would go 265/75/16.