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LT265 vs LT285 Duratracs

2K views 23 replies 10 participants last post by  austindsmith9 
#1 ·
I will be needing to buy new tires for my LJ. It has a 2" lift, and 16 rims. (I may do a 1" BL, but not sure) I was looking at the Duratracs. Seems the two choices I have, are the

LT265/75R16 (load range C)

or

LT285/75R16 (load range E)

I've looked at different sizes, besides these two, and the E rating seems odd for that size. I guess my question is, are the 285's really that much of a stiffer ride? I'd like to get the slightly bigger tires, but not if they're going to be alot stiffer. This is my daily driver.
 
#2 ·
I ran 305/70R16 Goodyear MTR's in load range E for about 2 years and didn't notice any difference in ride from the previous C rated tires. I think the pressure you run is going to determine your ride more than a little stiffer sidewall.

I think you will find you'll definitely need to install the body lift to move up to the 33's.
 
#7 ·
it is also 9lbs. heavier per tire to go with the 285(54) vs. the 265(45) that along with the added width will affect your ride, mileage, and wear and tear on the suspension.
 
#11 ·
Which stock gearing? 3.07, 3.73, 4.10...? Also, which engine and transmission? All of this matters. I suspect you are a Rubicon because of the 16" wheels.

To properly fit 33s, even for the street, you need a minimum of 3.25" of total lift, 4" is preferable. Search the forum and you will find all kinds of information, including how to set your bump stops.
 
#12 ·
Thx for the info. No, I actually just purchased a 2006 LJ Unlimited. The 16" are aftermarket that the OP had. I'd have to look up what my gearing is. And he already had a 2" lift kit, and I don't really want to take that out to do 2.5" or 3". Most I am willing to do is add a 1" BL. I don't want to dump a whole lot of money, just to run bigger tires. I really like the look of the 33" but I'll be fine with 31 if I have to. Right now, it has 245/75 so it would still be a slight increase.
 
#15 ·
I have a 1.25" BL with a 1" spring lift. I too debated between 265/285's for some time. Ultimately chose 265's. Load range C and am happy with the results. 285's would have swallowed up too much of the wheel well. No rubbing but I also installed 1.25" wheel spacers. The visual impact of going from 245's to 265's was significant.

Have 4.11 gears with a MT. Didn't notice much of a power loss at first but I notice it now. Not a significant loss but its there. I catch myself running the tach between shifts a little higher than I have done in the past. Hills that I was ascending in 5th,I am now doing in 4th.

Those that have been around awhile recommend at least 3.25" of lift for 33's. You are an easy BL away from obtaining this. Tough call indeed. Run 32's nicely with a couple inches of lift and maintain most of your performance without the hassle of adjustable track bars or go after the 33's and open up that can of worms.

33's properly lifted would definitely look better parked in the garage.
 
#16 ·
I am running the 285 Duratracs in load range E. While I like the ride, it is definitely firm. I think I am running around 29 psi now. Last summer it was a little lower but the jeep started to handle poorly on the highway, so I put a little more air in. Mine is a rubi and has always had E's, so I have no experience running C's in it.
 
#21 ·
Ok, thx. I don't offroad, so I really don't want to waste time or money changing gears, arms, or anything else, just for tires. And I'm kinda like the 16" rims I got, so I'll go with the 265's.

I would still like to add a 1" BL to the already 2" suspension lift already there, as long as, again, I don't need to make changes.
 
#24 ·
I have 305/70r16 cooper stt that are E rated tires. I made a mistake in getting E rated tires. I have a soft top so no heavy weight in the back and no major additional weight on the jeep. The tires are darn stiff and sometimes I feel like I'm riding in a dump truck. I have since aired down for street to about 22 psi in front and 20 psi in back and it is much better and definitely doable; however, I will never buy E rated again. I really like the look, tread pattern, sidewalk protection, performance on dry, wet, snow covered roads and only off road so far was during the winter which was a combo of mud and snow and they did great. I wish I went with 15" rims for cheaper tires, more selection, and so I could get some Coopers that are C rated!

I see others running E rated as well like water dog has before so I do wonder if it's this harsh, is it destroying my TRE's, bushings, or anything else?!
 
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