the payload during the winter doesn't matter to me. before this truck I had a 2011 f 350 which did come stock with the 265 70 17's, hence why I am trying to use my 17" tires I used on the Ford during the winter. so if I understand what you are saying is that some 20/21's Chevys come with 17" wheels. after trying the 17"'s from my buddy's 2011 I just don't see how any 17" wheels are going to fit on this truck. the wheel went on and over the caliper but it was so tight it was rubbing. I thought about spacers or different offset wheel but after trying them I don't see either of those as an option. so I guess if I want to run a winter set of tires I'll need to buy another set of 18" wheels and new 18" tires. ugh.