LT or P tires? what are you running? | Ford Explorer Forums

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LT or P tires? what are you running?

speed1972

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Joined
August 12, 2008
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City, State
Aurora, CO
Year, Model & Trim Level
2006 XLT
Just curious what people are running for aftermarket tires. I am looking at a set of Nitto Terra Grappler 265/70/17 tires for my X and they are available in passenger and LT style. I'm guessing since we aren't hauling big loads around the passenger style would be fine.

Appreciate the info!!

LB
 



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no opinions?

I have searched but no good info really that I've seen...for that matter there isn't really much info about anything that fits the 06+ models when it comes to tires. Lots of speculation but nothing concrete. I'm assuming this size tire will fit before I lift it also.

LB
 






Ok, well I went ahead and ordered a set of P265/70/17's for the X. Should have them on by next weekend so we'll see how they fit/work. I am out of the country but I'll see if I can get the wifey to take a couple pics and I'll post them for anyone interested. When I get back stateside in November, I'm going to put a small lift on it too whether it be the roadbully or the truxxxs brand.

LB
 






I think LT's usually have a higher ply rating. Perhaps they are just stronger all around.

If you dont go offroad I wouldnt worry about it.
 






LT are stronger, but I just have P on mine.
 






Thank you for the input!! I figured it was a strength/weight carrying ability and since we are not hauling around super heavy loads, the P should be fine. It's not like the stockers were anything stronger than what I'm going to be putting on so all should be fine. I definitely look forward to winter this year consider I probably should have bought a new set last year, I was way overdue but made it through. :D

LB
 






LT tires are for "Light Trucks" - meaning they are intended for trucks which haul loads, they usually have a "C" weight rating or more, which means stiffer side walls. I ran LT's on the mounty in a 285/75, they were harsher riding than a P tire would be. Now that the Mounty is off towing duty and my wife drives it daily, I run P tires on it.

My F150 came with P tires on it from the dealership, they were terrible on it. With a minimal load at max pressure, they squatted like crazy and even unloaded always looked under inflated. I recently switched to LT's and the truck drives so much better.

So if you need to haul loads or have a heavy vehicle, you need LT's, but if you want ride comfort, go with P's.
 






I never noticed which I had until now... and I had to go look! The tires I am using are intended for 2wd F150 and Expedition. 275/55/20.
I agree the P tires do provide a softer ride, heck mine still rides smooth even with the low profile sidewall, and I keep them at 38PSI. Unless you plan on overloading your vehicle, the P should be OK instead of LT. They can handle plenty of weight. Mine are rated 2500# each. Only reason to prefer LT and load rated is on F250 or larger, aka heavy duty trucks.

26475320204_medium.jpg
 






Here are a couple pics of the X with the new tires, no modifications to the stock setup and I have to say that the 265/70/17's fit very well. At least as much as I can tell from a picture and feedback from the wife.

the%20X.jpg


Overall view

X%20close%20up.jpg


Close up view

LB
 






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