2016 Ram 3500 Dually Tire Size
The 2016 Ram 3500 Dually is a beast of a truck, built for heavy-duty work and towing. One of the most critical aspects of maintaining your dually is ensuring you have the right tire size. The tire size not only affects your truck’s performance but also its safety and handling. Let’s break down the stock tire sizes based on different trims and configurations.
Stock Tire Sizes by Trim
The 2016 Ram 3500 Dually comes in several trims, and each trim may have different stock tire sizes. Here’s a quick overview:
| Trim Level | Front Tire Size | Rear Tire Size |
|---|---|---|
| Tradesman | LT235/80R17E | LT235/80R17E |
| SLT | LT275/70R18E | LT275/70R18E |
| Laramie | LT275/70R18E | LT275/70R18E |
| Laramie Longhorn | LT275/70R18E | LT275/70R18E |
| Limited | LT275/70R18E | LT275/70R18E |
Understanding Tire Sizes
Tire sizes can be a bit confusing if you are not familiar with the terminology. Here’s a breakdown of what the numbers mean:
- LT: This indicates a Light Truck tire, designed for heavier loads.
- 275: This is the width of the tire in millimeters.
- 70: This is the aspect ratio, which is the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width. A 70 means the sidewall height is 70% of the width.
- R: This stands for Radial construction, which is the most common type of tire construction.
- 18: This is the diameter of the wheel in inches that the tire is designed to fit.
- E: This indicates the load range, with E being suitable for heavy loads.
Choosing the Right Tires
When it comes to selecting tires for your 2016 Ram 3500 Dually, you have a few options to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Tread Design: Depending on your driving conditions, you may want all-terrain, mud-terrain, or highway tires.
- Load Rating: Make sure your tires can handle the weight you plan to carry or tow. Look for tires with a suitable load index.
- Seasonal Considerations: If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider winter tires for better traction.
- Brand Reputation: Stick with reputable brands known for durability and performance.
Common Tire Sizes for Aftermarket Options
If you are looking to upgrade from stock tires, here are some common aftermarket sizes that fit the 2016 Ram 3500 Dually:
- LT275/80R18
- LT295/70R18
- LT275/65R20
- LT325/60R20
Remember, if you decide to go for a larger tire, you may need to consider potential modifications to your truck’s suspension or wheel wells.
Final Thoughts on Tire Size
Getting the right tire size for your 2016 Ram 3500 Dually is crucial for performance, safety, and longevity of your truck. Always consult your owner’s manual or a tire professional when making changes to ensure you are making the best choice for your driving needs.
Exploring the Smallest and Biggest Tire Sizes for the 2016 Ram 3500 Dually
When it comes to the 2016 Ram 3500 Dually, tire size can make a significant difference in performance, handling, and overall driving experience. Whether you are looking to downsize for better fuel efficiency or upsize for increased traction and load capacity, understanding the smallest and biggest tire sizes available is crucial.
Smallest Tire Size Options
For those who might be considering a smaller tire size, the stock options are generally the way to go. The smallest tires you’ll find for the 2016 Ram 3500 Dually are:
- LT235/80R17E
This size is typically found on the Tradesman trim. While these tires are great for basic work tasks, they may not provide the best traction or load capacity for heavy-duty applications.
Owner Feedback on Smaller Tires
Many owners who have used the LT235/80R17E tires report that while they are suitable for light towing and daily driving, they can struggle with traction in muddy or snowy conditions. Here are some common sentiments from forums:
- Better fuel economy compared to larger tires.
- Good for city driving but not ideal for off-road.
- Wear out faster under heavy loads.
If you are primarily using your truck for light-duty tasks, these smaller tires can be a practical choice. However, if you plan to push your truck to its limits, you may want to consider upgrading.
Biggest Tire Size Options
On the flip side, if you are looking to maximize performance and load capacity, the biggest tire sizes for the 2016 Ram 3500 Dually can significantly enhance your truck’s capabilities. The most common larger tire sizes include:
- LT275/70R18E
- LT295/70R18
- LT275/80R18
- LT325/60R20
These sizes are often used on higher trims like the Laramie and Limited. They provide better traction and stability, especially when towing heavy loads.
Owner Feedback on Larger Tires
Many Ram 3500 owners who have upgraded to larger tires have shared their experiences in various forums. Here’s what they had to say:
- Significantly improved towing capacity and stability.
- Better traction in off-road and adverse weather conditions.
- Some noted a decrease in fuel economy due to increased rolling resistance.
- Wider tires can lead to a rougher ride on paved roads.
Owners of larger tires often emphasize the importance of ensuring that your truck’s suspension can handle the extra weight and size. It may also be necessary to make modifications to your wheel wells or suspension system to accommodate larger tires.
Best Tires Based on Owner Feedback
Based on feedback from various forums and owner reviews, here are some of the best tire options for both small and large sizes:
For Smaller Tires
- Goodyear Wrangler HT: Known for its durability and smooth ride.
- Michelin LTX M/S: Offers excellent all-season performance.
- Firestone Transforce HT: Great for light-duty towing and highway driving.
For Larger Tires
- BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2: Highly praised for off-road capability and durability.
- Goodyear Duratrac: Excellent traction in mud and snow.
- Michelin LTX A/T2: Offers a good balance of on-road comfort and off-road performance.
Selecting the right tire size for your 2016 Ram 3500 Dually is essential for optimizing performance and ensuring safety. Whether you choose smaller tires for everyday use or larger tires for heavy-duty tasks, make sure to consider owner feedback and expert recommendations to find the best fit for your needs.