16's or 16.5's

[tneibling]

Today I leveled my 99 and now I'm starting to look for a set of 10 inch wide rims for my 99. I've found a few pretty good deals on craigslist on 16x10's and 16.5x10's. Could i get some opinions on which you would prefer and why. Also which would be more cost effective, referring to cost of tires (285's or 305's).

[fourforeverfours]

I have been an advacate of 16.5's for many years. Having said that, the availability of tires in the current era is slim to might slim. I have always like the Michelin tires and one "can" still purchase them, but the selection may not allow you to use them if you have a dually. One should check the sizes available before choosing wheels.

Just one persons view point.

[tneibling]

Thanks...are tire prices for 16.5's much different than for 16's?

[fourforeverfours]

I believe you will find that they may be anywhere from 10 to 15% more, but you are purchasing a much more heavy duty tire which will provide many more miles of service than the 16's. Years ago (I'm an old f--t now) two of the 6 guys that hunted together ran 10:00 / 16.5's one ran 16's and the rest ran 15's. The two with the 16.5's were able to run 50-60+k miles on their tires. The balance of us, if we had radials, managed 40k. I find that the 16.5 have more actual (usually-always check) ply's and the HD's were 10ply. Makes a big difference with 10 ply's as the tire doesn't squirm nearly as much (all tires squirm/wiggle) subsequently a more true running tire and less wear. One could beat this tire selection thing to death and imho it comes down to the purchaser's preference. I like Michelin and the next guy might like Firestone or ???. Kind of like Ford/Chevy/Dodge if you know what I mean. I've had great experience with Michelin over the years from tires for race cars, to street sedans and trucks and each time I decide to try something else, I'm disappointed. Especially with ride. Pick your poison as they say.

[CHUCK]

Originally Posted by fourforeverfours

I have been an advacate of 16.5's for many years. Having said that, the availability of tires in the current era is slim to might slim. I have always like the Michelin tires and one "can" still purchase them, but the selection may not allow you to use them if you have a dually. One should check the sizes available before choosing wheels.

Just one persons view point.

Agreed.. availabilty getting slim.Next tire purchase, I'll go to 17s...