I am looking at 33" Dura Tracs in either 285/75R16 or 305/70R16 for a 2012 JKU. Using the Tire Rack site specs both measure out at 33.1". The tread width, however, for the 285 is 9" vs 10.7" for the 305 (Section widths are 11.3 vs. 12.2). But here's the rub - the 305 weighs in at a whopping 9 lbs. heavier per tire.

SO here is my question to the more experienced here - is the wider tire worth the increased weight? Will it cause a hit in mpg or other issues? It seems 285/75R16 is a common choice around here. Can you convince me otherwise?

And feel free to just weigh in (pun intended) on the relative merits of width vs weight in tires.

 

I haven't got a good reply to your answer except. Make sure that your comparing tires of the same rateing. "E" rated tires are a lot heavier and more durable than "C" rated tires in the same size.

 

You hafta ask yourself what a wider tire is good for. The narrower tire is lighter, better in snow, has better side clearance, costs less to buy, and gets better MPG. Unless lots of soft sand or mud is in your plans, the wider tire seems to be pretty much cosmetic.

 

^^^ that's a solid answer. If your gonna drive your JK in the Utah snow I'd go narrower and pay less for tires and gas.

 

Its only 1.7 (9 vs 10.7) difference in width according to Tirerack.com tread with i believe it was

Not worth the extra weight. Thats 45lbs extra all together.

The 305 has a higher speed rating at 99 mph vs. 93 mph.

Both are 10 ply E load range truck tires

IMO i say go with the 285's but all the specs are there you just gotta decide whats best for you and your jeep.

 

I forgot to add that I am running 315 70 R17 Duratracs now on my 08 and they are 8 ply D load range at 61LBS per tire.

 

Less rolling mass translates to better braking

 

Just checked the specs. Think the measured section width would be less dramatic if the measured wheel was the same width. Instead of a 8" and 9" wide wheels. With the same width wheels the difference should only be about 20mm (0.7874016 inches).

If I had to choose, I'd pick the 285/75R16. Lighter, narrower, maybe a fraction of a mpg better.

Overall a lighter narrower tire, of the same type, will be better on mpg than a wider heavier tire.

Love my Duratracs.

 

Zombie Hunter...what's your tread wear like with your DT? I'm in a similar boat....GY DT or Mickey T ATZs

Thanks

 

Thanks all. Your replies make sense and confirm what I suspected. I will be doing some off road now and again, but getting to ski areas and winter trailheads is the more common destination.