New Falken AT tire (A/T3W)

[SKT_07]

I should update my original feelings on these tires.

I installed the A/T3W's in 265/70/17 (SL) at the beginning of October '18 on the stock TRD-OR wheels; my truck at approximately 1,100 miles on it at that point. Through a number of "wheeling" trips, countless road trips, daily driving, and plenty of dirt/gravel (to include the 1,000mi Kentucky Adventure Tour) these tires did everything they were asked to and much more (except once). The "except once" was Kentucky quicksand-like clay/mud on the DBBB where the traction boards and a bit of digging were required to get us out.

After 33,900 miles of abuse they've been retired, not because of an issue, nor because of worn tread. They've been retired because a new set of 255/80/17 Wildpeak A/T3W's have been installed on a fresh set of wheels.

They were rotated at roughly 5,000mi intervals, however, did get a bit louder around the 25,000mi mark. For the entirety of their on-road life they were left at 35psi, which seemed to be the perfect mix of fuel economy and tire wear, while never leaving me wishing for more traction. Even on the KAT we left them at street pressure with no issues. "Wheeling" trips would get aired down to about 22-24psi, but I'm not really sure that made any substantial differences. They still have plenty of tread left (I'll measure next week when I put them up for sale w/ my original wheels) and would probably have lasted another 20,000 miles or so.

Now for the new stuff! I went with 255/80/17, which, when the FedEx guy delivered them, caused me to check each tire's sidewall at least twice. These things looked SKINNY! Un-mounted they looked almost worryingly narrower than my 265s. They were mounted on a set of 17x8 Level 8 MK6 wheels (ET 0 for those who care). My local shop that was mounting them did have a bit of an issue getting the 255s to seat on the 8" wheels correctly, but in the mounter's own words "I've got the trick now" (it involved using a Cheetah). I think there were no fewer than 7 or 8 times that he reminded me that a 285 would fit fine on the wheel.

The switch from a 265/70 SL tire to the 255/80 E-rated tire is definitely noticeable to me. The steering is slightly heavier and sharp bumps on the roadway/potholes are felt slightly more. Given the extra sidewall height, there's definitely no extra cushioning that was gained. With that being said, I'm not deterred or unhappy about how the tires feel at all.

Since they are new (about 750 miles on them so far) they are definitely quieter than the off-going Wildpeaks, enough so that my need for the ECGS bushing was solidified (and that arrived yesterday).

In dry/wet conditions I can't say that the driving/traction feel has changed at all, maybe a bit more "roll" on long sweeping cloverleaf ramps, but I'll openly admit that I drive them like I'm still driving something prepped for a track day (nearly all my previous vehicles) instead of a lifted 3-ton SUV. My last two tanks were also quite different in driving environment/style than my norm so the fuel economy hit is still to be determined, if I were to guess, maybe somewhere in the .7-1mpg range?

Also FWIW, I did have to trim the passenger side fender liner (ahead of the tire) as I was getting rubbing at full lock in reverse.

And if you've made it this far, why are you still reading? I truly didn't plan on writing a novel when I started this post

Wow, awesome detailed write-up/comparison - thanks!

 

[mgproudfit]

Hey [MENTION=276630]Anand[/MENTION] - can you tell me more about where you trimmed the liner? I just installed the 255/80's as well and am running a 2.5"/1.5" F/R lift (OEM TRD PRO Bilsteins + Preload in front and the Dobinson's 1" spring in the rear. Its not even full lock when I rub. Id say maybe like 50%, if that. Also, what is your alignment specs?

 

[mgproudfit]

Hey [MENTION=276630]Anand[/MENTION] - can you tell me more about where you trimmed the liner? I just installed the 255/80's as well and am running a 2.5"/1.5" F/R lift (OEM TRD PRO Bilsteins + Preload in front and the Dobinson's 1" spring in the rear. Its not even full lock when I rub. Id say maybe like 50%, if that. Also, what is your alignment specs?

 

[Anand]

Hey [MENTION=276630]Anand[/MENTION] - can you tell me more about where you trimmed the liner? I just installed the 255/80's as well and am running a 2.5"/1.5" F/R lift (OEM TRD PRO Bilsteins + Preload in front and the Dobinson's 1" spring in the rear. Its not even full lock when I rub. Id say maybe like 50%, if that. Also, what is your alignment specs?

So I trimmed both sides of the bottom edge of the bumper (approximately .5" wide by 1.5" high) as a "just in case", and then cut out a section of the fender liner on the passenger side, just where it makes the bend to be horizontal (and attach "under" the bumper). I also removed the front mudflaps as a "just in case".

I didn't take any pics of it, but here are a few posts that may give you some guidance

5th Gen 4Runner Bumper Wheel Well Trimming and Cutting - Step by Step

Front Bumper Trimming for Dummies with pictures and Super detailed (DIY) - Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum

https://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/223710-285%92s-2016-4runner-trail-fender-liner-mod.html

 

[mgproudfit]

Awesome reply - thanks, dude. Any info on your alignment settings by chance?

 

[Anand]

Also, what is your alignment specs?

As soon as I can find my last alignment sheet I'll grab the specs for you/post them here.

 

[MAST4R]

Why not try the Wildpeak M/T 01?

They are more highly reviewed everywhere than the Firestone’s, they offer them in LR C, and they are a great looking tire. I’ve seen them in person and had strongly considered them before landing back in these AT3W. Plus, your size weighs in at 53.1 lbs which is right in your ballpark.

I may consider those next time around.

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For me, 49 is the max.

Generally, I am just reluctant to go back to two sets. That would solve the weight issue and more but I am resisting

The MT2 is still too new to have any substantial reviews. The MT 1 was a very old design.

Actually have been reviewing the Charles Wells book for Arizona! Would love to get back to Utah but too much snow at the moment (had a pretty terrifying slide on fins and things and had to reverse hard). So looks like Arizona is next!

If the Wildpeak in C-load was lighter I'd consider it but right now have my eyes on some MT tires. Thinking of the KM3, STT Pro, or Wildpeak.

So Discount Tire Store data has the LT Wildpeak averaging 73,000 miles which is outstanding vs 51,000 miles for the P metric. So that's that.

Unfortunately, the C-load 275 70 is so heavy...

I like the Destination MT 2 better than any of those options. The STT Pro ranks horribly for noise in the Discount Tire Treadwell testing. I like the ST MAxx but there are two issues there: they don't last more than 50,000 per the data and that means 30,000 maybe 32,000 for me. Second, there are many handling complaints. On top of that even the 255 75 C-load is a bit too heavy for my taste. But I like the ST MAxx's capability. Btw, the Destination MT 2 is cheaper at Firestone centers than elsewhere.

 

[Decipher]

For me, 49 is the max.

Generally, I am just reluctant to go back to two sets. That would solve the weight issue and more but I am resisting

The MT2 is still too new to have any substantial reviews. The MT 1 was a very old design.



So Discount Tire Store data has the LT Wildpeak averaging 73,000 miles which is outstanding vs 51,000 miles for the P metric. So that's that.

Unfortunately, the C-load 275 70 is so heavy...

I like the Destination MT 2 better than any of those options. The STT Pro ranks horribly for noise in the Discount Tire Treadwell testing. I like the ST MAxx but there are two issues there: they don't last more than 50,000 per the data and that means 30,000 maybe 32,000 for me. Second, there are many handling complaints. On top of that even the 255 75 C-load is a bit too heavy for my taste. But I like the ST MAxx's capability. Btw, the Destination MT 2 is cheaper at Firestone centers than elsewhere.

That mileage difference is massive on the AT3W P metric vs LT. I’m about to do my 5,000 mile rotation and I’m curious to see where they’re at on tread depth (too busy to do it myself, plus free balancing so why not). I can tell you my P metrics, which I still love the ride, visually appear lower already than when new. I can see the difference which sucks. I may be switching to the M/T 01 when I go into discount for the rotation if the price is right. Used, these will get snatched up quickly so I’ll make a good buck back.


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[Mutant138]

For me, 49 is the max.

Generally, I am just reluctant to go back to two sets. That would solve the weight issue and more but I am resisting

The MT2 is still too new to have any substantial reviews. The MT 1 was a very old design.



So Discount Tire Store data has the LT Wildpeak averaging 73,000 miles which is outstanding vs 51,000 miles for the P metric. So that's that.

Unfortunately, the C-load 275 70 is so heavy...

I like the Destination MT 2 better than any of those options. The STT Pro ranks horribly for noise in the Discount Tire Treadwell testing. I like the ST MAxx but there are two issues there: they don't last more than 50,000 per the data and that means 30,000 maybe 32,000 for me. Second, there are many handling complaints. On top of that even the 255 75 C-load is a bit too heavy for my taste. But I like the ST MAxx's capability. Btw, the Destination MT 2 is cheaper at Firestone centers than elsewhere.

Not sure why everyone is so concerned about the weight of the tire. Wheels I get but not tires. Just pick the right one for the job.

After several punctures on the stocks I went with LT's and haven't regretted it. Or really noticed the weight. MPG with a lift and 285's is relatively unchanged. Nothing but confidence now. Only negative side is it's hard on the back getting the wheels on and off and it rides a tiddly bit harsh.

 

[The_Green_Wang]

Best tires

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[Blue 4ever Runner]

I got the Wildpeaks put on this morning. This is how the 4Runner should look! I'll paint the wheels black come the spring then I'll be all done with mods on the truck. Yeah, right. Stock size SL load rating. Cheaper, lighter and only a little shorter than 275 LT's. Took it out and got to 75 MPH with no vibrations at all so the shop did a good job. Quieter than the Grabber AT2's I had on my Grand Cherokee so I'm happy.

 

[bugkillr]

I got the Wildpeaks put on this morning. This is how the 4Runner should look! I'll paint the wheels black come the spring then I'll be all done with mods on the truck. Yeah, right. Stock size SL load rating. Cheaper, lighter and only a little shorter than 275 LT's. Took it out and got to 75 MPH with no vibrations at all so the shop did a good job. Quieter than the Grabber AT2's I had on my Grand Cherokee so I'm happy.

Did you notice any power/ acceleration loss?

 

[Blue 4ever Runner]

Did you notice any power/ acceleration loss?

No, it seemed the same and I was looking for that when I got on the parkway.

 

[Decipher]

Not sure why everyone is so concerned about the weight of the tire. Wheels I get but not tires. Just pick the right one for the job.

After several punctures on the stocks I went with LT's and haven't regretted it. Or really noticed the weight. MPG with a lift and 285's is relatively unchanged. Nothing but confidence now. Only negative side is it's hard on the back getting the wheels on and off and it rides a tiddly bit harsh.

I can assure you the addition of unsprung weight is noticeable and very impactful. When I dabbled with a heavier tire (Nitto RG) they were significantly heavier than these and wow. The truck was sluggish to accelerate, harder to turn and worked harder overall to maintain speed. You truly felt the difference. I was in the “eco” zone less according to my dash and my transmission was shifting more to keep my power up. It’s a real thing and a massive part of the reason I went p metric instead of LT on these tires. So far no regrets there although I’ll see how much tread I lost in the first 5,000. As M4ster has reported, the Ps lose a bit at first but stall out with the harder compound later. I’m expecting that since they’ve gotten louder already.


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[Mutant138]

I can assure you the addition of unsprung weight is noticeable and very impactful. When I dabbled with a heavier tire (Nitto RG) they were significantly heavier than these and wow. The truck was sluggish to accelerate, harder to turn and worked harder overall to maintain speed. You truly felt the difference. I was in the “eco” zone less according to my dash and my transmission was shifting more to keep my power up. It’s a real thing and a massive part of the reason I went p metric instead of LT on these tires. So far no regrets there although I’ll see how much tread I lost in the first 5,000. As M4ster has reported, the Ps lose a bit at first but stall out with the harder compound later. I’m expecting that since they’ve gotten louder already.


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...Pedal...Commander

 

[SlickTRD]

I can assure you the addition of unsprung weight is noticeable and very impactful. When I dabbled with a heavier tire (Nitto RG) they were significantly heavier than these and wow. The truck was sluggish to accelerate, harder to turn and worked harder overall to maintain speed. You truly felt the difference. I was in the “eco” zone less according to my dash and my transmission was shifting more to keep my power up. It’s a real thing and a massive part of the reason I went p metric instead of LT on these tires. So far no regrets there although I’ll see how much tread I lost in the first 5,000. As M4ster has reported, the Ps lose a bit at first but stall out with the harder compound later. I’m expecting that since they’ve gotten louder already.


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Which tire do you like better? the nitto rg or the falken wildpeak?

 

[mgproudfit]

Untitled by Matt Proudfit, on Flickr

255/80/17 A/T3W's. Lifted about 2.5"/1.5" on TRD Bilstein + Preload and 1" Dobby rear spring. Getting some decent rubbing on inner fender liner that Ill need to address. Coming from 275/70/17 ST MAXX's, these are sooooo much quieter on the highway but I do miss the aggressive look of the Coopers. Looking forward to trying these out off-road.

 

[SpeedyKevin]

...Pedal...Commander

Would rather regear as the pedal commander doesn't really help with the loses in crawl ratio. For street driving, I mainly just leave it in 4 and it works well. Car seems to want to go to 5 as soon as you hit 35mph lol

 

[Mutant138]

Would rather regear as the pedal commander doesn't really help with the loses in crawl ratio. For street driving, I mainly just leave it in 4 and it works well. Car seems to want to go to 5 as soon as you hit 35mph lol

I don't use my pedal commander off road as stock mapping is perfect for technical. 1st gear low range FTW. I noticed next to no loss in crawl ratios.

Why are you driving around in 4th gear all the time? That makes no sense just get a pedal commander and stop being stubborn. Make your truck shift as it should on the street. About a thousand threads in here with nothing but people raving about it. You are doing a disservice to your driving experience.

Regearing is fairly invasive/expensive surgery on your truck. I'm more then happy with the stock pumpkin, pedal commander, and 33's. Prob going up to a low 34 with no regear or regrets.

The difference between stock and 285 is almost nil.

 

[mteolus]

285's made a big difference for me. Rolls over big objects much better. But yea, the crawl ratio sucks. I may switch to 4.56 or 4.88. Still trying to figure out which one to go with. 4.88 makes sense for off-road but will it be bearable at 75 mph is the question. Wish Toyota's had a similar transfer case as a Rubicon geared way down, they we wouldn't have to worry about re-gearing too much.