Question about Replacement Tow Vehicle Tires
I have a 2002 Dodge 2500 2WD that has Firestone Transforce AT 245/75r16's on it. The tow vehicle has both towing and camper package on it (extra leaf springs). The tires are now 7 years old and have about 30K miles on them but are developing cracks in the sidewalls. In short, it is high time for new tires.
Here's some explanation before I pose my question:
I tow a TT with 6500 lbs GVWR and a hitch weight (loaded) right around 1000 lbs (just over 15%). My Tow Vehicle door specs say the front tires should be at 50 psi and the rear at 80 psi, which is what I run when towing.
My driving is almost all on paved roads, just some short distances to access some more remote campgrounds on gravel roads. I'd like to get a good tire that has a comfortable ride (my wife and I are getting older). I've investigated some tires. It sounds like the Michelin LT Defender is generally considered good, with some reservations.
OK - Here's the question. Online, I've read that people have some problems with the Michelins developing cracks after a few years. Since I don't put very many miles on per year, I'm more interested in a tire that lasts many years than one that lasts many miles. I realize that I'll get all sorts of opinions, but that's OK with me. Do any of you have a situation like mine in terms of hauling, wanting smooth driving, and not putting on many miles per year? And what tire would you recommend? Thanks to all who contribute. -Dewey
Here's some explanation before I pose my question:
I tow a TT with 6500 lbs GVWR and a hitch weight (loaded) right around 1000 lbs (just over 15%). My Tow Vehicle door specs say the front tires should be at 50 psi and the rear at 80 psi, which is what I run when towing.
My driving is almost all on paved roads, just some short distances to access some more remote campgrounds on gravel roads. I'd like to get a good tire that has a comfortable ride (my wife and I are getting older). I've investigated some tires. It sounds like the Michelin LT Defender is generally considered good, with some reservations.
OK - Here's the question. Online, I've read that people have some problems with the Michelins developing cracks after a few years. Since I don't put very many miles on per year, I'm more interested in a tire that lasts many years than one that lasts many miles. I realize that I'll get all sorts of opinions, but that's OK with me. Do any of you have a situation like mine in terms of hauling, wanting smooth driving, and not putting on many miles per year? And what tire would you recommend? Thanks to all who contribute. -Dewey
