Need tires with higher weight ratings

[ACDW-Ottawa]

Does anyone know what tires I can switch to on my RAM 3500 to increase my rear load capacity so I don't screw up the torque and trailer tow ratings. I have a 4.10 gear ratio on my RAM 3500 with Michelin LTX/MS2 LT265/70R17E 121R tires rated for 3200LBs each in SRW configuration for a total of 6400LBs. If I had a dually, my total tire load capacity would be 1190LBs. As of 2013, this was the maximum weight load I could find in a 17" tire and I didn't find anything better in the 18" tires. It was suggested that I move up to 19 or 19.5" low profile tires and I was told my RAM ride would be very hard. Would my rear bags soften the ride sufficiently?

The only solution I can come up with, is to keep the same outer tire circumference so as not to screw up my torque and trailer tow ratings.

Anybody have a similar situation or know enough about tires to help me.

Thanks

P.S. If I switch tires, I would have 4 x 17" rims to sell

 

[Dave and Monica]

I think you're limited with the 17" rim. If you go to an 18" rim there's LT275/65R18 @ 3415# and 32.1 diameter or LT275/70R18 @ 3640# and 33.2 diameter. The OEM tire is LT265/70R17 @ 3195# and 31.7 diameter using Michelin specs.

What's the RAWR of your Ram?

Dave

 

[ACDW-Ottawa]

My rear gross Axle weight rating (GAWR) is 6500 Lbs compared to 9750 Lbs for a dually (DRW). I should be fine changing tires to achieve higher weight rating because the truck is made for DRW. Some of the other specs from the Trailer Tow Specs are below (specs from http://www.rambodybuilder.com/2010/docs/ram/rammlup3500.pdf):

Front. Rear
GAWR. GAWR. GCWR. MTW (Max Trailer Tow)
SWR. 5500. 6500. 24000. 16400
DWR. 5500. 9750. 24500. 16550

I like the 18" option you found. It would increase my rear wheel capacity by 900 lbs. Just don't know how that will affect my torque with a diameter of 32.1 vs 31.7.

I'm really frustrated because my Dodge dealer and the Dodge help line would not discuss changing tire size. And I don't have this type of experience.

I appreciate the help!

 

[KZ]

I looked into the same issue with my Chevy. I have tires with the Load index of 124 (which are good up to 3500 each). I wanted to go to a 129 Load Index, but could not find them. Another issue could be the studs that attach your rims to the truck. If you decide to go to a lower profile tire the ride will suffer and transfer the shock to your trailer. Good luck.

 

[Dave and Monica]

Interesting...I was wondering if you could get tires with a higher than E load rating and what sizes they're available.

Dave

 

[ACDW-Ottawa]

If I go to a lower profile tire, wouldn't my truck's rear air bags soften the shock to my trailer?

Aaron