33s or bumper upgrade?

Like most, I off-road 10 or less % of the time with my truck, and it is my daily driver. That being said, I still like to improve the look and functionality of my truck (even if it just makes it more functional for the impending Russian invasion - any werewolves out there?).

I have some extra cash and clearance now, so I’m debating between upgrading from my 265/75/16 to 285/75/16 and adding a low-profile steel bumper such as hiline or victory 4x4. Thoughts?

 

Tires first, but aways keep mind the trade offs and don’t worry as much about size as type (A/S vs A/T vs M/T)

 

Appreciate it - rationale behind that?

 

I'd get the bumper. You already have a upsized tire in the 265/75/16.

 

What exactly is the point of the bumper? If you need clearance, do a viper cut for $10 and a dremel. You will clear 35s with that mod. If you plan on running a winch, so sure, front bumper.

 

Gas mileage is certainly better! Something looks a bit off after the conservative lift/level (1.5”), which is what motivates the consideration of a larger tire.

 

265 is not a great tire size…ymmv

 

Tires are your contact point with the ground. They make the biggest difference in traction, braking, and turning. A bumper doesn’t do anything except protect some plastic that you can replace with a bumper once it is destroyed.

 

Would you consider 33 a decent tire size? Im running the 116 falkens everyone else has before they go nuts.

 

Oh, for sure. I tossed the OEM tires 16 hours after buying the truck. Now I'm in it for increased diff clearance and look. Would probably stick with the at3w or switch to KO2.

 

285s seem to be the sweet spot for 90% of taco owners, minimal chopping, off road capabilities and daily driving. Ymmv

 

Have you thought about 255 80 17's or 255 85 16's? I was going to go 285s but I think I'm going to go with 255's.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/the-skinny-on-skinny-tires.529656/

 

I think the stock Goodyear wrangler all-terrains are just fine for mixed use, but I might be in the minority. I’m running them now, but have mud terrains in the garage for when summer starts.

 

I love my pro wheels @ 16", and I like more rubber over metal (I play in a ton of rain and some snow). What's the deal with 255/85/16? I haven't considered them.

 

Oh, I'm sure they would have been fine for the majority of what I use the truck for. I frankly don't like the look and was going into the rainy snowy season when I picked up the truck.

 

Well to sum up that thread they are 33.1" tall by about 10" wide. So a little taller than 285's but about an inch narrower.

Benefits
Gas mileage shouldn't take that big of a hit
Taller diff clearance
Better in snow
Theres a few more

Cons
Look but that is preference
Less tire choices

To be clear I don't have them yet, just have done a bunch of research for my needs and they seem to be the choice.

 

Hah! I put them back on for the snowy season. There aren’t many winter off roading opportunities where I live. Off road locations are closed or impassable without a snowmobile. We do get a share of winter storms that make on-roading fun and challenging though.

 

Hey, thanks for enabling my laziness! Really appreciate the insight. I’m going to look at pictures to see if that con is even a big deal.

 

Oh man, I lived in WI for a year…you must think I’m an idiot with all my rain and moderate snow talk

 

I have skinny 33’s too. I think the only widely supported advantage is that they are the tallest tire you can run without having to carve up your wheel well. Tire options are slim, but skinny 35 tire choices are even worse.