I am looking into getting some new wheels and tires. I want to fit in some 35x12.50 on 18" rims. I do moderate off-roading ( I tow a modified Samurai for any "real" off road use) and want some tires that look real nice. I was set on the Nitto Mud Grapplers but after reading all the Threads on them, thought better of it (7k miles? rediculous!) So now I am thinking about either Pro-comp extreme muds or the M.T. MTZ. The question is the MT MTZ are only a D load rating. Is that enough for my truck and to tow a double axle trailer and sami? Or do i need to find an "E" rating? Also I have the dark almost charcoal grey, wondering what you guys think for rims? i am goin 18, and want the black and slight bits of Chrome? Or just go all black/ all chrome? Thanks for any help and sorry for the long post! (first timer)

Lastly, anyone know where to get some good under body protection (skids for diff, tranny, transfer, gas, etc???)

Stocker rocker 2004 F-150 xlt Supercab 4x4, Tow package.

 

If you truck is stock, I'd go with a set of 33's. If you install a leveling kit you can fit 35x12.50's by using the OEM wheels. If you go to a wider aftermarket wheel, I'd stick with 33's. Personally, I'd go with a set of 18x9 inch aftermarket wheels with 5 to 6 inches of backspacing and some 325/60-18 (33x13.00) tires .
Both tire's you mentioned are getting good reviews. I'd also consider the BFG MT KM's and Toyo MT's and **** Cepek Mud Country tires.

 

Toyos

 

The Maxxis Buckshot is a very good MT. A set of 285/70/17 mounted & balanced will set you back $500 around here. A friend of mine just replaced his first set with another, he had ~45k on them.

 

If I ran the 18x9 rim with a 33X13.50 tire what kind of back spacing would I need to eliminate rubbing? Again, anyone know where I can get some protection for my truck? Skids and what not?

 

I would just try to mimic what chum's got, 5'', looks to be perfect.

 

Ya thats probably a good call. How are those Hankooks working out for you guys? decent traction in mud? I was leaning towards MT MTZ or pro comp ex mud terrain. Someone said that **** Cepeck MT are really good and the hankooks are decent.... what are your thoughts?

 

I love mine, 28,000 miles, wearing great. they are quite and dont have any complaints at all. haven't had em deep mud but once and they were fine, a lot of gravel roads and minor mud here and there....i drive a lot of highway now too, commute to job....

 

Toyo mts are one of the best tires available. I would go with them or **** cepek mud country.

 

Ya, I know Toyo's are great because everyone and their mother own em! I mean there are three people on my street alone (very small town) that own em. So, not ragin on them, I heard nothing but good things, but i don't want to have the same look as everyone on my street. Plus, I am in love with the look of the Nitto's MG. Anyone heard about BFG Krawler?