Hi All,

I'd like to increase the stability and, also, correct a 4-5 % speedo error (reads higher than it should) on my 2000 mountaineer. Current tires are Goodyear Wrangler RT/S 235/75-15's.
It'd be nice to stay with the 15 inch wheels for cost reasons, but, if I have to go to 16's so be it. A change to Michelin would be ideal.
So, any suggestions as to which increased size to go for? Is 255/70-15 too much tire? Or does it have to be the 245/70-16 as the Explorer Limited and Eddie Bauer is equipped.
A tire size that would over- correct the speedo error is ideal in order to compensate for the excess mileage logged to date. Also, I've been to the tire size calculator sites and have gotten several alternatives. But, I don't know which is best for the stability issue. Your input and experience with the different sizes would be great.
Thanks in advance.

John H.
2000 Mountaineer
44K, Black w/tan leather

Mine came stock with 255/70 tires.

But you'd be just fine going with 31x10.50 Michelin LTX M/S.

plenty of people put 31's on a stock height explorer/mountaineer.

Thanks Jason and Leenjen, your suggestions are appreciated.

The 255/70 sized tires on your Explorer, Jason...are they 15" or 16"?

John H.

They're 16's.

Thanks, jason.
John H.

John, if you decide to go with 16" rims like i did you can fit up to P265/70R16 (31") I got Michelin Cross Terrains and they are ecellent tires. I love the ride and handling they give.

Travis,

Great looking Explorer. You've done a nice job on your upgrades and the tire sizing looks good.

John H.

Thanks John. i appriciate it. If you like the tire wheel setup I got you could do the same. I purchased the rims off www.mysporttrac.com. Then had the P265/70R16 put on. They do not rub. If you do the torsion twist and schakles (about 1.5" lift) you can fit the P265/75R16 under there without rubbing.
Whichever way you go I wish you luck and want to see pics when it is done!

If you're interested in going a bit larger (265/75/16, 31.6" tall), I've got a set of brand new BFG's for sale with 16" teardrop style wheels- check the For Sale board :)

Personally I (along with most other folks here) say go ahead and go to a larger tire, at least a 31" or so... Do a torsion twist up front, get some Warrior shackles, and for $100 you're 2" higher than stock with plenty of room for some beefy tires. :bounce:

If you do switch to a larger tire size, I would advise you to get the comptuer recalibrated at your local ford dealer. I think mine wants $100 for recalibration, but they found out it only works on 98 and newer trucks...the 97 and older have a mechanical gear to be replaced.