08 Sierra W/ Rl 2.25 Leveling Kit -- Max Tire Size

Live2FlyLow · October 7, 2011

I cringe at posting this, as I'm sure it's been discussed, but after hours of searching I cannot locate the information.

2008 Sierra Z71 (all-terrain) 18 inch OEM wheels W/ a ReadyLift 2.25 leveling kit applied.

I am seeking the largest tire size, without possibility of rubbing, that can be used for this truck. I am looking at the new BFGoodrich Rugged Terrain tire in the following sizes:

LT275/70/R18 Overall: 33.2

P265/70/R18 Overall: 32.6

Ready Lift tech support says that with their 2.25 leveling kit the truck can accommodate 33 inch tires. They "guess" the 275/70/R18's at 33.2 inches overall would work. I'm risking a chunk of money in restocking fees if they don't.

How much of an issue is that .2 of an inch, has anyone used these sizes of tires on their leveled truck and which tire option would you choose?

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

dirtfan21 · October 7, 2011

Go with the 275/70/18"s. That tire is ran religiously on a 2" level around here. Post pics when done!

brad519 · October 7, 2011

I ran BFG All Terrain 275/70/18's with a Skyjacker 2" level with no issues what so ever.

Live2FlyLow · October 7, 2011

Brad / Nate....thank you very much for your input, advice and pictures. I've found a tire shop that has the 275/70/R18 in stock, and while a few dollars more expensive per tire, they won't charge me anything if they rub and have to be removed -- so long as I order the 265's from them. Fair enough.

I noticed bumping up from a 265 to a 275 the ply changes from 4 to 10 ply. How does this, if any, effect ride and mileage? Is it worth gaining .6 of an inch overall? (Truck is seldom used for heavy loads beyond a bass boat)

Anyone else that may have some input, I'd welcome it.

dirtfan21 · October 7, 2011

There will be a bit rougher ride with a 10 ply tire and you will probably see a small decrease in MPG's due to the larger, heavier tire. I will say that if you do the leveling kit and install the 275's it will probably look a bit goofy if you return to 265's. I really believe you will enjoy the look of the 275/70's and the con's will be marginal.

EDIT: Don't count out a 285/65/18 tire as well. Cooper makes this size in the Discoverer AT/3 and Nitto makes the size in the Terra Grappler and Trail Grappler.

Live2FlyLow · October 7, 2011

EDIT: Don't count out a 285/65/18 tire as well. Cooper makes this size in the Discoverer AT/3 and Nitto makes the size in the Terra Grappler and Trail Grappler.

I'll look into those tires and check their overall size as I can only assume that is the data that effects my situation the most. I'm seeking a happy medium between decent highway mileage, ride and service life yet with with as much of an aggressive look I can get. Admittedly my Z71 All-Terrain spends 95% of it's time on Interstate terrain. Any additional tire recommendations would be welcomed.

pharmboy2010 · October 9, 2011

I highly recommend going with some 285/65/18s. I have a 08 All Terrain and was running 285/65/18 Terra Grapplers on the factory rims...love those tires. Had no trimming and no rubbing (even with mud flaps on) on a 2" RC level.

Big Whiskey · October 11, 2011

Go with the 275/70/18"s. That tire is ran religiously on a 2" level around here. Post pics when done!

^What he said. A lot of guys run these around here, and they look good. Plus, they're much cheaper than 285/65's. It's hard to find a larger 18" tire that's not a 10 ply, unless you go with a 275/65/18. A guy in town has a black all terrain with a level kit and 275/70/18 Cooper STT's on the factory rims, and it looks mean as hell.

Live2FlyLow · October 14, 2011

I wanted to take a minute and thank everyone who took the time in replying to my questions. Your shared knowledge really pointed me in the right direction, assisted me in making the correct decisions and creating a positive end result.

Today I installed the ReadyLift 2.25 leveling kit, purchased / installed a set of 275 X 70 X R18 BF Goodrich Rugged Terrain tires (new tire replacing the Rugged Trail) and completed a front end alignment. The end result is perfect and certainly the look, ride and feel I was aiming for. I've owned the truck since Feb of 08 and today is the first time I felt like I was driving a truck as I look across a level hood. The tires fit perfectly and look simply awesome with the GMC all-terrain wheels. I've found myself going to the garage twice today to look at it........

I'll try to muster up some pictures as soon as possible. Thanks again for everyone's time and knowledge.

Big Whiskey · October 14, 2011

Glad you're happy with it! It's amazing how much difference a leveling kit and larger tires can make on these trucks. Don't forget those pictures!

dkj313 · February 24, 2012

I wanted to take a minute and thank everyone who took the time in replying to my questions. Your shared knowledge really pointed me in the right direction, assisted me in making the correct decisions and creating a positive end result.

Today I installed the ReadyLift 2.25 leveling kit, purchased / installed a set of 275 X 70 X R18 BF Goodrich Rugged Terrain tires (new tire replacing the Rugged Trail) and completed a front end alignment. The end result is perfect and certainly the look, ride and feel I was aiming for. I've owned the truck since Feb of 08 and today is the first time I felt like I was driving a truck as I look across a level hood. The tires fit perfectly and look simply awesome with the GMC all-terrain wheels. I've found myself going to the garage twice today to look at it........

I'll try to muster up some pictures as soon as possible. Thanks again for everyone's time and knowledge.

can you get some pics up??

anthony2558 · January 24, 2014

2 years later...... Yeah we're the pics at? :-)

Tapatalk via Moto X

shortnugly · June 23, 2014

I wanted to take a minute and thank everyone who took the time in replying to my questions. Your shared knowledge really pointed me in the right direction, assisted me in making the correct decisions and creating a positive end result.

Today I installed the ReadyLift 2.25 leveling kit, purchased / installed a set of 275 X 70 X R18 BF Goodrich Rugged Terrain tires (new tire replacing the Rugged Trail) and completed a front end alignment. The end result is perfect and certainly the look, ride and feel I was aiming for. I've owned the truck since Feb of 08 and today is the first time I felt like I was driving a truck as I look across a level hood. The tires fit perfectly and look simply awesome with the GMC all-terrain wheels. I've found myself going to the garage twice today to look at it........

I'll try to muster up some pictures as soon as possible. Thanks again for everyone's time and knowledge.

Ha! thought we'd go away?

Where are those pics Mc2fly?