Smaller *gasp Tires for Better Towing? Unusual Question.

I promise, I searched and searched for an answer.

So I have a TRD Sport and I'm running 265/75-16s (I have different FJ Cruiser wheels). But I tow a fair amount, and I live in Utah, where crossing 10,000-foot passes is common.

Pics, because Pics make things more awesome and offer some context.




I'm due for new tires, originally, I was thinking of going back to the OEM size of 265/70-16 but there are not so many tire choices in that size, particularly for good AT tires. However, if I go even one step down to a 245/75-16 I get the same height as the OEM size, but the tire is narrower and I can run pretty much any tire I want (I'm leaning towards Cooper ST MAXX's) and narrower tires are typically better in the snow anyhow.

First, will the shorter tire help my gearing for towing? (I'm pretty sure this is a yes).

Second, will the skinny tire look ridiculous and will it work on my wheels?

The FJ Cruiser wheels are 16x7.5 with 5mm more offset moving them away from control arms (outward). Stock is 16x7.0.

It's a grand for tires, so I don't want to be very careful making this decision. I've been wearing out the Tire Size Calculator, but I was hoping others who have made this swap or would have some insight could chime in.

Thanks!
dp

 

My dad has 245s on his 4 cyl Taco and I think they look pretty small honestly, even though they are about the same OD as a 265/70/16. Another option is a 235/85/16, which would be slightly narrower still, but a 32" diameter. They are mostly all load E though, for duallies and such.

 

I run General Grabber AT 2's at 245/75 R16 and I think they look fine, I'm lifted 2.5" but I didn't want to sacrifice mpg or power.

 

Thats great! I have a 2" lift. Does the truck feel "peppier" with the smaller/lighter tires?

dp

 

I've never ran anything larger than 245, the first owner had 285's but sold them cause he didn't like it. 245 does everything I need.

 

The smaller tires will give you more torque "on the ground" for towing. It will especially be noticeable at high elevation. I think the ST Max in the 245 will be a fantastic compromise for your needs. I say go for it.

Towing over passes with my 33s really sucks. Smaller tires is a much cheaper option than regearing. Not that I'll be going that route...

 

You are using the tire calculator. If you look up a final gear calculator, you'll get an idea of the ratio change. It will give more gear, but it won't be huge. So yes, the answer is 'yes', but how much you'll have to figure out.

I doubt it. You're talking 3/4 of an inch in width. With your 1/2 wider wheels, and touch of offset, I doubt the average bear would notice the difference visually.

It's a pleasure to see someone actually thinking about overall impacts, rather that just 'how big can I run and not rub'.

 

Beautiful pics!

The 245/75R16's will NOT look goofy at all. In fact, they are the OEM size on all non-TRD 6-lugs!
Definitely if you want to maintain torque, keep with the OEM circumference.