I'm deciding between a 285/75/R16 and a 33x12.5R17. How much will this extra inch or so in tire width impact my gas mileage and more importantly my resistance to hydroplaning and ice traction?

Thanks.

 

it'll be a little heavier, so your mileage will be affected some, but not likely by too much. and the tire siping will play a larger roll in wet / icy conditions than the width. either go with an AT with lots of siping, or go easy on the idiot peddle.

 

In theory, when comparing similar tread patterns, a wider tire will be more likely to hydroplane. That is due to the larger surface area of the contact patch. If you are going with a different tread pattern from what was originally on the Jeep, such as from a street tire to a mud tire, this may not apply.

 

My mileage dropped from 20 to about 17. I thought it might be a little worse. I also get a little more wander in the wind than before. The highway ride is still pretty decent. A little firmer but not bad.