Anybody though of tire downsizing for towing?

Anybody downsized for towing? For a 3rd gen, I guess that would mean go 225/75/16 or 215/85/16, but LT E to make sure the weight is fine for the tire...

It'd be like cheap regear...

Just a thought, most likely no going that route but please let me know if that make sense or if it's just crazy. And any comments about "look" is not what I'm interested in.

 

Have a look at the pizza cutters thread

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/255-80-r17s-pizza-cutter-thread.525039/

 

255 80 17 is 2.5 inches taller and half a inch wider, not really what I meant by downsizing...

 

I don't see any problems with a smaller wheel, as it would make acceleration easier. However, I don't think I would decrease width and increase sidewall. In doing so, you decrease your contact patch, and thus increase your stopping distance. Definitely not something you want if you are towing some decent weight. Also, taller sidewalls allow for more flex. Keeping your truck and trailer tracking straight in challenging conditions on the highway will be more difficult than with a lower profile tire.

I would stick to same width tire and decrease the profile for a more stable situation.

If you plan on doing a lot of heavy towing, it may be worth picking up a second set of cheap (or not) rims that are wider and larger diameter. Something like 18x8 or 18x9, and a 265/50r18. Much better acceleration, braking and stability than a 225/75r16.

 

My point being there are people there with skinnier tires. One aspect oh your question.

 

Im on 255/85r16 and have thought of going. 265/65. Few other reasons beside towing. Still on the fence though.

 

i went with 35s and gearing for towing lol

 

actually- i had 245s for towing- it was awesome. swapped them on and instantly had better power, mileage. braking irrelevant with controller ha. take offs are dime a dozen from sr5s on fb marketplace! usually around 5-600 for newish ones