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cairnwalker's avatar
cairnwalker
Explorer
Jan 03, 2017

Benefits of 22" inch wheels on a gasser?

After 15 years with a MH, crossed over to a fiver. Really like it some ways, but don't like pulling it, so we're ready to go back to a gasser and all the conveniences of a MH.

Our previous 2000 Damon Intruder had a Ford V10 and 16.5 wheels (I think) pulling a Jeep Wrangler or HHR with satisfactory performance and MPG. In researching newer vehicles, I see that some of the higher-end lines have 22" wheels on a Ford F53 chassis.

Besides the increased weight capacity, what are the advantages of the larger wheels, and are they sufficient to offset the obvious difference in cost of replacement tires?

Thanks in advance for any experience or other insight you may care to share.
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17 Replies

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  • crasster's avatar
    crasster
    Explorer II
    Jan 03, 2017
    My Toyota has a better ride than the bounder. Yota has 14" tires. LOL. :) I would say the main advantage is the life of the tire should be longer for tread wearout. Whether or not you'll hit that in 7 years (my max on tire age) is another story.
  • roam1's avatar
    roam1
    Explorer
    Jan 03, 2017
    larger basement, no floor transition between living room and cockpit, some have pass thru badement
  • hanko's avatar
    hanko
    Explorer
    Jan 03, 2017
    It looks a hell of alot better too. 16.5's on a motor home
    looks like go cart tires
  • Ivylog's avatar
    Ivylog
    Explorer III
    Jan 03, 2017
    Newer gas MHs have gotten too heavy for 16.5 tires without going to max pressure... poor ride. Yes a 22.5 is going to cost more but the better braking... more rubber on the road and the softer ride... less air pressure are worth the extra cost. Some use 19.5 tires when height, space, or gearing is an issue as they have a smaller diameter and only slightly less load carrying capacity.
  • Kayteg1's avatar
    Kayteg1
    Explorer II
    Jan 03, 2017
    Beside the weight capacity, bigger wheels also tend to require lower air pressure, what improves stability and comfort.
    Some of those 22.5 tires come with 600,000 miles threads, what I don't think you have a chance to wear.

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