I have always put LT tires on my trucks. They can support extra weight which I probably don't even get close to reaching. It's a 4x4 extended cab with a shortbed. I currently have the LT Revo's on it with 60,000 miles and plenty of tread left. That's right. A lot of good tread left.

I bought some new used Ford polished 17" wheels on Ebay. I currently have 16s. So I must buy new tires. The LTs cost a lot more than the Ps but they also have around 25% more tread. The LTs also take a lot more air than the Ps.

So my question is other than the LT's being able to carry more weight is there any other advantage? Will the Ps with their less tread depth wear out quicker? Will the Ps get less mileage since they have much less air? Do the Ps offer a much better ride than the LT's? What about traction and handling characteristics?

Thanks

 

Basically, P is for passenger car and LT is light truck. Most times a P is ok but for truck size tires, LT is the only option. I believe Lightning tires are P's because of low profile. Not a big difference in anything really, a P may require 33 psi whereas a LT require 36. Not really big deals, just LT's are built tougher and rated for different terrain.

 

One thing LT tires are not is speed rated. That's the reason why Lightnings have P series tire and these trucks come with a speed limiter.
LT tires are definitely better constructed. More belts, thicker sidewalls. I personally will not use P series tires on my truck. Just don't feel they are up to snuff for a truck. Especially if you ever haul heavy loads or tow. P series tires may be able to handle the weight, but are much closer to their limit than an LT series tire is.

 

Check the actual load rating in pounds of any tire. Some LT tires are load rated about the same as other P type in the same size. The load rating for more P tires that fit our trucks is well beyond what F-150's can safely handle. I nmost cases, you just end up with a stiffer ride when unloaded.

 

I would agree that the load carrying is the same as long as they are extra load P series tires. Regular P series are lower rated. I still feel though that the LT are better construcred for the heavier duty use.