Question on P-metric vs. LT tires - 285/70R17's

[proquip]

Hey guys - I just posted the question below on the 5th gen forum, but this group has certainly been modding their 4Runners for some time, so I thought you may be able to weigh in.

I'm looking to upgrade the tires (also looking at lift kits) and I'm leaning towards the Toyo Open Country A/Ts, but can't decide between the P-metric or LT (D load range).

Would there be an appreciable difference in ride quality between the two tires as it relates to the additional unsprung weight of the LT tire (44lbs for P-metric vs. 53 for LT)? I would expect stiffer sidewalls in the LTs, but wondering if the extra weight would also make a difference? Would love to hear from those that have experienced both a P-metric and LT (heavier tire) on their trucks. Thanks!

 

[chayos00]

Hey guys - I just posted the question below on the 5th gen forum, but this group has certainly been modding their 4Runners for some time, so I thought you may be able to weigh in.

I'm looking to upgrade the tires (also looking at lift kits) and I'm leaning towards the Toyo Open Country A/Ts, but can't decide between the P-metric or LT (D load range).

Would there be an appreciable difference in ride quality between the two tires as it relates to the additional unsprung weight of the LT tire (44lbs for P-metric vs. 53 for LT)? I would expect stiffer sidewalls in the LTs, but wondering if the extra weight would also make a difference? Would love to hear from those that have experienced both a P-metric and LT (heavier tire) on their trucks. Thanks!

If you plan on offroading, i would got the LT tire route. The LT's tend to be beefier in build than the P rated tire. Usually more plys in the LT.

 

[r3dh3ad84]

Without a doubt spend the extra cash and get the LT's. You'll regret the P-rated once you get about two or three other people and try to take a turn at about 40 and heard those Prated squeeling as they almost peel off the rims... I've had P-rated and I've had LT and without a doubt- buy the LT if you haul some stuff, plan on four wheeling, or take turns faster than 25 MPh.

 

[03_4x4Runner]

A LT tire is tougher if you do go off road. Other than that they work against you. They ride rougher and that heavier weight sucks up power and mpg. Also if you go to 285 you are going to loose around 2 mpg from the taller height alone. The 5th gen is underpowered enough that tall tires will make it a real dog. It will have sluggish acceleration and downshift a lot more on hills. It would be best to regear to get back to stock performance. My freind just put 285 tires on his 4.0 Tacoma and is regretting it now.

 

[bigwebb83]

A LT tire is tougher if you do go off road. Other than that they work against you. They ride rougher and that heavier weight sucks up power and mpg. Also if you go to 285 you are going to loose around 2 mpg from the taller height alone. The 5th gen is underpowered enough that tall tires will make it a real dog. It will have sluggish acceleration and downshift a lot more on hills. It would be best to regear to get back to stock performance. My freind just put 285 tires on his 4.0 Tacoma and is regretting it now.

+1. I don't do any towing and I doubt my 4 tires will ever need to carry more than the 10k pounds that most p rated tires are rated for so my next set will be hankook dynapro atm's in p265/65/18 that weigh in right at 40 pounds and should increase my gas mileage if anything.