Posted by BIG BLUE on December 11, 02 at 22:48:01:
Ok, since the 97 Sub gets new u-joints and a balanced driveshaft tomorrow, the 94 K2500 Sub that I just bought is feeling a bit neglected and would like some new tires for the snow season/Christmas. Current set up is a set of Big-O tires LT 245/75R16's E on American Racing AR-39 16x8 wheels that came mounted on the truck from previous owner. I was able to get a set of brand new steel wheels (16X6.5 off a 2000 Crew Cab SW from a guy that also supplied the beauty rims and center caps) figure I'd run the steel wheels thru the winter and "save" the AR's for the springtime and have two complete sets for this truck.
Want to mount a set of 265's and would like to stay with a minimum load range D and prefer E from past experience with towing and of course the endless discussions over the last 3 or 4 years here on this forum. Michelin is my brand of choice and have had 7 or 8 sets on various trucks with great luck. Problem is the LTX A/T's don't come in a load range E when you go with a 265. The M/S does but I want the more aggressive look like the A/T and the better traction control in the snow. So, with that being said, I'm considering something other than Michelin.
Choices are as follows and in no order of preference, use will be daily driver first, occasional towing of 7K lb trailer second and very light off-road use last here is the list:
Pro-Comp A/T...don't know much other than what the guy that sells them locally tells me. Realize that they of course make many aftermarket products for off roading and only make 3 different tires. These would be 265/75's in D load. Like the design and look, just don't see many on the road and only a couple of tire places in town carry them.
Bridgestone Dueller AT Revo...have heard great things about these on various truck forums but not one tire place in town has a set that I can see/touch. Think they come both D and E in the 265 series with minimal cost difference.
BFG A/T KO's...have had a set of these and so has everyone else and their dog. Like the aggressive look but don't like the small stones they throw and sometimes trouble with balancing too.
Geolander's...don't know much other than what I've read and have not seen any in person but like the tread design, wonder if they come D only or E, will have to see.
Also would like to see/hear experience with Yoko's and Cooper's. Have had Chapparel A/P, Kelly AWR, Dunlop Rover and Pathfinder, which all served well but realize there are better choices and want a 50K plus tire with good track record.
Any input is greatly appreciated. Cost is not really an issue since they are all overpriced IMHO so I'll be dropping 6 bills+ no matter which ones I choose. I figure at these prices why haggle over 30 or 40 bucks.
Thanks in advance,
BIG BLUE