2000 Mountaineer from 15" to 16" or even 17" wheels?

[John H.]

I'm in a quandry...whether to upgrade to 16" wheels from the current 15" or even to 17". The issue is handling and safety. My 2000 Mountaineer swapped ends on me this past winter on icey snow with seemingly no provocation...just a slight turn of the the wheel to follow the road. Speed was average for the conditions. So, to reduce that tendency I'm going to try a larger tire. I know Ford says to use a P series tire and I'm assuming that is due to the sidewall flexing in turns to absorb some of the body roll. But, going to a 17" tire/wheel (245/65-17) combo will give me less of a sidewall for this whereas a 16" tire/wheel (255/70-16) increases the sidewall. I'd think that the 17" would generate better handling though. Traction might be better with the 16's? Need some help with this. The 15's are definitely going, is it 16" or 17". It's a safety and handling issue. What are the thoughts of all of you on this? Need your help. Thanks.

John H.

 

[Hokie]

Dad went from 235/75R15 to 265/60R17 on his '98 Mounty. Said he noticed a handling difference but not an extreme amount. Putting on the Rancho RS9000X shocks helped some also. Above all he thinks the addition of an EE rear sway bar was the most significant change in handling.