Load Range E tire pressure 2005 Z-71 1500

[hikerboy]

Looking to replace my 265/70/17 Goodyear Silent Armor Load range C tires.....and am discovering that Load range C is nearly impossible to find. My local tire dealers stock P-Metric and Load range E tires only. I've loved the C rated tires, as I occasionally tow a 4500lb travel trailer and the ride quality has been smooth, combined with a much more stable towing experience. Been running 40-42 psi unloaded, and 50 psi when towing (max pressure for LR C). I'd get the Silent Armors again but they are discontinued.

 

I've scoured the forums, but am still unsure if LR E tires would trash my half ton's unloaded ride quality. And if not, what pressure is OK/safe to run unloaded and when loaded/towing? I know my factory rims are not rated for 80psi, nor would I need to run the pressure that high when loaded.

 

I guess I could go back to the P-metric version, I don't tow a lot (probably 8-10 weekends a year) and don't off road other than driving gravel roads to trailhead, etc.

 

Thanks for the thoughts!

 

[Black02Silverado]

I would go back with a P tire since you are concerned with ride quality and do not do much hauling or major towing.

 

E rated tires are good but ride will be rougher compared to what you are used to. If you did get E then run them at the recommended pressure inside your door jam when not towing or hauling and then bump them up to around 50psi when you do. That is what I do on my LTX M/S2's.

[Daryl LBZ]

I got my Cooper A/T3's from Discount Tire.com in a load range C.

[hikerboy]

Thanks for the tip on Discount Tire - - that is the perfect solution. I'm guessing you've been happy with the A/T3's?

[TAZ DEVIL]

I run E BFG Rugged trails on my wife's '15 1500 4x4 at 50psi. Truck rarely carries anything, ride is fine. Can't tell difference from stock tires.

[Big Whiskey]

There are still a few C-range LT tires out there. My last set of Toyo AT2's, and the Cooper AT3's before them were both C-range. But, if you can't find what you want, and end up running an E-range tire, then you'll be fine running 35-40 psi when empty, and 55-60 psi when towing. I've done that on a couple 1500's without any trouble. The sidewalls on P-rated tires are just to soft for my liking.