17" winter tire load rating question for new ('07) Tundra

[dantheman762]

Hi guys,

Trying to decide which way to go for a winter tire/wheel set-up for our crazy winters up here in Canada. I originally thought that 18" was the smallest rim that would fit the latest generation Tundra, but found the 17" TRD "rock warrior" wheels. I was thinking of using these as winter wheels so I can go as narrow as possible for the winter tires. However, the narrowest I can find with a tall enough series to keep the overall outside rolling diameter close to stock (Blizzak 245/75R17) has a lower load rating (110 SL) vs. the OEM. I also noticed that the load ratings of the OEM tires vary from 111 to 114 XL, depending on which OEM wheel tire combo you get and even which year ('09 to '10) - source: www.tirerack.com. Is it safe to run this lower load rating? We are looking at leasing an '09/'10 CrewMax 4x4 Limited. I will have my family in the truck for trips to the cottage and towing two snowmobiles. Thanks in advance for any input you may have on this.

[SE2000]

I understand you logic but it does not compute. Those RW wheels are expensive. plus they are alloys. You are better off going with styled steel wheels and 255/70-18 winter tires. the 10mm is small enough to be a non issue. the steel will be tougher to damage, and easier to repair/replace. Tires seem readily available.
If you purchased your truck and drove lots of miles to go through several sets of tires, the 17" may pay off in a decade.

[SnowTruck]

I have Nokian Hakkapeliitta LT on my Tundra and love them, absolutly an amazing snow tire. They are made in Finland where we know the winters are a bit like yours They have a 265/70R17 w/Load index 121/118Q which would work great on the TRD 17's you mentioned.


Nokian Hakkapeliitta LT

[dantheman762]

Originally Posted by SnowTruck

I have Nokian Hakkapeliitta LT on my Tundra and love them, absolutly an amazing snow tire. They are made in Finland where we know the winters are a bit like yours They have a 265/70R17 w/Load index 121/118Q which would work great on the TRD 17's you mentioned.


Nokian Hakkapeliitta LT

Thank-you. I had Hakkapeliittas on my old VW Golf when I was in college - awesome tires. Wanted to go narrower than 255 with a 245/75, but no one makes an XL load rated tire, so 255/70R18 it is. Previous poster was correct that those TRD Rock Warriors are damn expensive. If I can find another 17" wheel priced where I can justify them as winter wheels, I'll go this route. Thanks again.