Nitto Ridge Grappler?

[Dark Lord]

These could be my next. My KO2's vibrate above 75mph, the front passenger seat starts wobbling like mad. This is after 2 rebalances.

I actually experience the same thing with my new Nitro Ridge Grapplers in 285/70-17. Sometimes it wobbles above 65mph. They are better than my last tires I chose to replace with these, Cooper ST Maxx in 255/80-17. Those vibrated at all speeds. These ones are smooth most of the time, but above 70 it starts to vibrate my passenger seat like my last tires did. I'm starting to think there might be an underlying issue, but I'm not sure. They perform great off-road, look awesome, and are smooth for the most part. I need to figure out what the issue is with these vibrations though.

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[FJ Cary]

I actually experience the same thing with my new Nitro Ridge Grapplers in 285/70-17. Sometimes it wobbles above 65mph. They are better than my last tires I chose to replace with these, Cooper ST Maxx in 255/80-17. Those vibrated at all speeds. These ones are smooth most of the time, but above 70 it starts to vibrate my passenger seat like my last tires did. I'm starting to think there might be an underlying issue, but I'm not sure. They perform great off-road, look awesome, and are smooth for the most part. I need to figure out what the issue is with these vibrations though.

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Chris,
I would like to offer a few thoughts, if I may. Your signature suggests you have aftermarket wheels. Are they hubcentric, meaning the hub bore is 106mm? If not, do you have hub centering rings or are you using extended thread lug nuts?
When they wheels were installed, were they torqued "in the air", or dropped on vehicle weight and then torqued.

In all scenarios mentioned above, a difference of even 1mm intolerance will create all kinds of ride issues. Especially on Toyota trucks. It's always possible you have a uniformity issue with one of your tires, or just a poor balance.

One final question: are these load range E or C?

 

[Dark Lord]

Chris,
I would like to offer a few thoughts, if I may. Your signature suggests you have aftermarket wheels. Are they hubcentric, meaning the hub bore is 106mm? If not, do you have hub centering rings or are you using extended thread lug nuts?
When they wheels were installed, were they torqued "in the air", or dropped on vehicle weight and then torqued.

In all scenarios mentioned above, a difference of even 1mm intolerance will create all kinds of ride issues. Especially on Toyota trucks. It's always possible you have a uniformity issue with one of your tires, or just a poor balance.

One final question: are these load range E or C?

They are load E rated. They were mounted on SCS F-5 17" wheels which are hubcentric. I am using extended thread nuts as well. As for the other stuff, I'm not sure because Discount Tire did all that.

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[shrub1]

2" Toytec TRDP lift and SAW coils.

Just installed about an hour ago. Balanced perfectly, no vibrations up to 85 MPH, negligible increase in noise over the stock Terra Grapplers.

Same build, same thoughts. Love it.

 

[comtn4x4]

I know it's early in the season for snow, but anyone have any thoughts on wet/snow traction?

 

[FJ Cary]

I know it's early in the season for snow, but anyone have any thoughts on wet/snow traction?

Tire was released to the public around July 1. Doubt many have experience in winter conditions with it unless they work at Nitto and were involved with testing. I can't comment on wet driving as of yet. The tire does have some groove and siping in the tread area, but Nitto has other offerings (Terra and Exo) which may be better suited for snow.

 

[comtn4x4]

Tire was released to the public around July 1. Doubt many have experience in winter conditions with it unless they work at Nitto and were involved with testing. I can't comment on wet driving as of yet. The tire does have some groove and siping in the tread area, but Nitto has other offerings (Terra and Exo) which may be better suited for snow.

I realize it's early. I am looking for a replacement for my duratracs and was hoping to go up to 285/75 when it becomes available. The Ridge Grappler is one of only a few tires in that size. Their Terra Grappler is generally criticized by those I know in Colorado for being terrible in the snow. The exo isn't available in a size that works for me. I off road extensively and being in Colorado I need a good snow tire.

 

[gm350reratliff]

Tire was released to the public around July 1. Doubt many have experience in winter conditions with it unless they work at Nitto and were involved with testing. I can't comment on wet driving as of yet. The tire does have some groove and siping in the tread area, but Nitto has other offerings (Terra and Exo) which may be better suited for snow.

I realize it's early. I am looking for a replacement for my duratracs and was hoping to go up to 285/75 when it becomes available. The Ridge Grappler is one of only a few tires in that size. Their Terra Grappler is generally criticized by those I know in Colorado for being terrible in the snow. The exo isn't available in a size that works for me. I off road extensively and being in Colorado I need a good snow tire.

The Exo is severe snow rated so it should do pretty good. It's Nitto's only snow rated tire expect their snow tire. I talked with the Nitto reps about the two a while back and they claim the Ridge Grappler has all the tech the Exo has but they just didn't feel like having two snow rated truck tires. That being said, going off Nitto's own tire performance charts, it shows the Ridge Grappler is rated higher for wet conditions, which I would've thought would be the other way around.

As for tire size, 285/75/17 is a good choice except very few tires are available in that size including the Exo. However, if you move to 18" wheels, it shows a 285/70/18, which would be about the same. I'm planning on those if/when I get a Tundra.

 

[comtn4x4]

The Exo is severe snow rated so it should do pretty good. It's Nitto's only snow rated tire expect their snow tire. I talked with the Nitto reps about the two a while back and they claim the Ridge Grappler has all the tech the Exo has but they just didn't feel like having two snow rated truck tires. That being said, going off Nitto's own tire performance charts, it shows the Ridge Grappler is rated higher for wet conditions, which I would've thought would be the other way around.

As for tire size, 285/75/17 is a good choice except very few tires are available in that size including the Exo. However, if you move to 18" wheels, it shows a 285/70/18, which would be about the same. I'm planning on those if/when I get a Tundra.

Thanks that's great information! You are right very few tires are available in that size, hence my interest in the Ridge Grappler. As well the C rating. I have no plans to go to a smaller rim, it really gets in the way of airing down. Let alone the cost of 5 new rims. I am just really looking to find something as good as the Duratracs in a 285/75 or maybe a 295/70. My other option would be the BFG KO2 in 34x10. Again thanks for the good info

 

[Coler2002]

Ordered a set of 285/70 17 C. I talked them down to 250 a tire. For an even 1k. Going to mount them on my scs stealth. Now I gotta order some TPMS sensors before the tires get in. I can't wait getting tired of driving around a stock rig.

 

[Co4Fun]

New Ridge Grapplers

Well it all came in today and it's all on. Paid $240 each for C's. Same price in C's or E's it sounded like.

I tried my best to get an unmounted weight on these in C's in 285/70/R17's but the Discount guys were too busy yada yada.

I mounted them up on 9" wide -10 offset American Outlaw Bandit wheels...which I think is a good balance for offset compared to the -20 something Moto Metals I had before (to me, stuck out too far and too much weight on bearings.) Plus these have the exact hub diameter as stock so keeping it all hub and lug centric.

I can say that I picked one up mounted and compared to any similar D or E setup they were noticeably lighter (though still not "light" per say...just light for 285's).

I think the look of them is good and I like the Terra Grappleresque sidewall. I mounted them aggressive (we've dubbed it transformer) sidewall out with shorty valve stems. I have a little part of me wondering if the 75 would have played slightly nicer with my 3" Toytech and 1" body but they also do not rub at all with this setup and the distance to the upper A-Arm / spring cradle is good...about an inch (much better than the silly 305's the previous owner had on them...I couldn't even get my pinky in there with those). But, I was hoping to be able to run light chains up there if need be in winter. We'll see...there's more room but not sure enough for that until I mock them up. With a 75 (and these wheels) I suspect no chance of chains whereas here with the 70's maybe.

As it is, having done my homework here (and making the Discount guys call)...the 75 is NOT yet available with no ETA...so I didn't want to wait. Also, when it is available, it will likely be in an E with the C possible but no commitment from Nitto on that yet apparently.

Finally, I flexed it out on some hills at my house with the steering all different angles. No rub at all! Good to go there and clearance (on my 99) at the diff is exactly the same as the 305's that were on it so I'm good there I think (could have got another 1/2" with 75's but meh...)

Driving is great so far! They are quieter for sure than a full MT, have great grip, and steering is better with these than the fatter 305's. No shimmy shake at any speeds up to 85 (and the 305's did.) Also, pep is there. I do have TRD Supercharger so not a big deal there but hey, any additional weight savings increase the fun factor with the SC and save on the 91 octane...well maybe a little.

So anyway, I'm happy. I'll post up later after I have some good trips on them. For me again, criteria here was to get a C above all. I personally disagree with all this D and E junk for lighter vehicles and I have wheeled CO's best (Chinaman etc.) with my former Jeep on 35 C's without issue (they're still 6 ply!) In fact, I think the C's not only have the weight savings but ride better and conform to terrain better aired down. Just my humble opinion...but based on some experience. I know the manufacturers are doing D's and mostly E's just to make less tires that cover more vehicles but for us we lose all the way around on that deal...we have no need for the load rating advantage and again, I'd argue not off road either.

I think this tire is definitely unique. Good luck finding a 285 and above in a C in about any other make and model (trust me I looked). So I do thank Nitto for this and I hope it pays off for them. Also, since the reality is that I'm on the road 90% of the time the comfort of a "less-that" MT in a C is welcome. In addition, as discussed in this thread already, I have high hopes for this tire in snow...certainly over a full MT (I'll have to post a follow up later in the year on that.)

Cheers! Onto the pics...

285/75r17 Nitto Ridge Grappler with 3" Toytech and 1" Body (HD rear springs as well)

 

[gm350reratliff]

Well it all came in today and it's all on.

I tried my best to get an unmounted weight on these in C's in 285/70/R17's but the Discount guys were too busy yada yada.

I mounted them up on 9" wide -10 offset American Outlaw Bandit wheels...which I think is a good balance for offset compared to the -20 something Moto Metals I had before (to me, stuck out too far and too much weight on bearings.) Plus these have the exact hub diameter as stock so keeping it all hub and lug centric.

I can say that I picked one up mounted and compared to any similar D or E setup they were noticeably lighter (though still not "light" per say...just light for 285's).

I think the look of them is good and I like the Terra Grappleresque sidewall. I mounted them aggressive (we've dubbed it transformer) sidewall out with shorty valve stems. I have a little part of me wondering if the 75 would have played slightly nicer with my 3" Toytech and 1" body but they also do not rub at all with this setup and the distance to the upper A-Arm / spring cradle is good...about an inch (much better than the silly 305's the previous owner had on them...I couldn't even get my pinky in there with those). But, I was hoping to be able to run light chains up there if need be in winter. We'll see...there's more room but not sure enough for that until I mock them up. With a 75 (and these wheels) I suspect no chance of chains whereas here with the 70's maybe.

As it is, having done my homework here (and making the Discount guys call)...the 75 is NOT yet available with no ETA...so I didn't want to wait. Also, when it is available, it will likely be in an E with the C possible but no commitment from Nitto on that yet apparently.

Finally, I flexed it out on some hills at my house with the steering all different angles. No rub at all! Good to go there and clearance (on my 99) at the diff is exactly the same as the 305's that were on it so I'm good there I think (could have got another 1/2" with 75's but meh...)

Driving is great so far! They are quieter for sure than a full MT, have great grip, and steering is better with these than the fatter 305's. No shimmy shake at any speeds up to 85 (and the 305's did.) Also, pep is there. I do have TRD Supercharger so not a big deal there but hey, any additional weight savings increase the fun factor with the SC and save on the 91 octane...well maybe a little.

So anyway, I'm happy. I'll post up later after I have some good trips on them. For me again, criteria here was to get a C above all. I personally disagree with all this D and E junk for lighter vehicles and I have wheeled CO's best (Chinaman etc.) with my former Jeep on 35 C's without issue (they're still 6 ply!) In fact, I think the C's not only have the weight savings but ride better and conform to terrain better aired down. Just my humble opinion...but based on some experience. I know the manufacturers are doing D's and mostly E's just to make less tires that cover more vehicles but for us we lose all the way around on that deal...we have no need for the load rating advantage and again, I'd argue not off road either.

I think this tire is definitely unique. Good luck finding a 285 and above in a C in about any other make and model (trust me I looked). So I do thank Nitto for this and I hope it pays off for them. Also, since the reality is that I'm on the road 90% of the time the comfort of a "less-that" MT in a C is welcome. In addition, as discussed in this thread already, I have high hopes for this tire in snow...certainly over a full MT (I'll have to post a follow up later in the year on that.)

Cheers! Onto the pics...

285/75r17 Nitto Ridge Grappler with 3" Toytech and 1" Body (HD rear springs as well)

View attachment 217483

View attachment 217484

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Thanks for sharing and don't forget to keep us updated, especially with some snow/ice reviews. Damn fine looking 3rd gen as well! :thumb:

 

[jeffkunkle]

Just got these in 285's this past week and really digg 'em. Not sure of the weight, but the guy at Tire World said "... them are some dammmmnnnn heavy tires". No louder then my previous Nitto Grapplers and they ride real nice on pavement and dirt.

 

[LawnDart]

Ordered 5x 35/12.50R17's on friday. My wallet, it hurts.

 

[JLRSR5]

Just got these in 285's this past week and really digg 'em. Not sure of the weight, but the guy at Tire World said "... them are some dammmmnnnn heavy tires". No louder then my previous Nitto Grapplers and they ride real nice on pavement and dirt.

Did you get c or e load?

 

[jeffkunkle]

Did you get c or e load?

E load at 40 psi. That's what was available currently. The weight is noticeable when going from a stop, but not once they are rolling. Love 'em!!

 

[JLRSR5]

E load at 40 psi. That's what was available currently. The weight is noticeable when going from a stop, but not once they are rolling. Love 'em!!

Nice, I'm getting a set of 285's c load this week. They look like awesome tires so I'm looking forward to getting them.

 

[Co4Fun]

Nice, I'm getting a set of 285's c load this week. They look like awesome tires so I'm looking forward to getting them.

Have a week on mine and one good trip. I like them. Good highway manners and I think they will be great off road as well. I have C's too (see my previous post) and like them. I had to wait a few weeks for them. A bit more comfortable on road and compliant aired down off-road (I have found formerly with all C's) and bit lighter. I don't think you can go wrong either way but since it's rare to even find a C in 285's I really wanted that. Maybe if more of us buy the C's in 285's and bigger they'll keep making them.

Let's hope these tires are good in the snow...well hopefully at least better than most full MT's.

 

[comtn4x4]

285/75r17's Range C Came out this week

I emailed Nitto to get the weight of the 285/75r17's C load range that became available Monday.... 65.04 lbs.! Heavvvyyyy!! I was considering these to hopefully save some weight while going bigger but no dice there. I can't imagine what the E's in the same size will weigh. The Terra Grapplers in the same size and E rating weigh the same. Seems odd. I'll probably be leaning more towards the KO2's in 34x10.5 or the Cooper St Maxx in 285/75/17, a pound less for an E rated tire

 

[ahbot]

I just passed my 500 miles marker on these Ridge Grapplers. I gotta say that these are much better than I expected. I had the KOs on my FJ and Tundra a few years back. These perform are smooth on the pavement. I remember that the KOs weren't the best at higher speeds. These Ridge Grapplers are great at 75-85mph. I went 265/70/17 E rated.

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