I was looking at getting some new tires for my 97 f150, but the tires for 17" rims are way to expensive! let me know what you think of this idea. 2 of the 17" tires are good, and i need to replace 2 of them. get a set of 16" rims and put a set of kuhmo mt 275/70/16 on them and use them for in the winter and use the 17" rim set during the summer months. i really need a great tire for in the winter for getting in and out of the woods. do this sounds crazy to your??? one of the guys said that it would ride rougher with the 16" rims on them. is that true and if so how much rougher ride?

 

I've got 16" rims on my truck and it doesn't ride stiff at all. Some rough ride comes from suspension (too stiff) some comes shocks that are too firm and some can come from tires with not enough sidewall (low profile tires). I just put new tires on my rig and it seems to ride better.
I'm not sure if 16's will fit on your truck. It would depend on the size of the brake calipers. (not sure if there were any mid model year changes, etc.). Best thing would be to trial fit a 16" rim before buying anything just to make sure.

Mike

 

Hi mgsalida

What make of rim is that on your truck ? Also maker of the Grille Guard.

Vince97

 

Hey Vince97:
Thanks! Wheels are MB Motoring Rocker (16x8) sold through Discount Tire. Grill Guard is made be Go Industries. I purchased the grille guard from www.aztrucks.com. It's a bolt together. I didn't want (don't like) the full brush guard.


Mike