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huchieglide's avatar
huchieglide
Explorer
Sep 06, 2016

17 inch wheels vs 18 inch on tow vehicle

We have sold our TT and the 1/2 ton truck is next. We are planning to purchase a 5th wheel in the 10000 pound range. Today we shopped Chevy Duramax 3/4 ton trucks. Looked very capable of handling the job. Question is: Some had 18 inch wheels and some 17 inch. Both were load range E. Door jam stickers were the same. Would one be better than the other for towing the 5th wheel? Seeking advice before purchase.
Thanks

14 Replies

  • Another consideration is truck height. With the one inch larger wheel, you will likely see taller tires. In the size FW you are considering, many will have 15" tires/wheels. The taller the truck, the more nose high the FW. Yes, there is some adjusting to the hitch and pinbox, but often not enough. Many are towing nose high, but a FW tows best when level.

    Jerry
  • Trackrig wrote:
    Has anyone found a chart showing the load carrying capacity of different diameter tires? Let's say load range Es in 16", 16.5", 17", 18", 19" and 20" if they exist. And yes I know different brands of tires in LR E have different weight capacities.

    Bill


    In general, the greater width/ aspect ratio equals greater weight capacities.
    To the original question, 17" rims are fairly limited in higher capacity tires, but with only a 10klb 5ver in tow, you'll likely not exceed the standard 17" tires of 3195lb cap.
    18s and 20s have many more brand tread, size and weight cap options.
    Don't let the 17s pull you away from the right truck, as takeoff wheels are plentiful for sale used on Craigslist if you can shop near a big city and somewhat in the country too.
    Lots of 18 and 20" takeoffs for sale from guys that buy big aftermarket tires and new rims. Sell the 17s and you're only out a small amount of $ to upgrade if you need.
  • Has anyone found a chart showing the load carrying capacity of different diameter tires? Let's say load range Es in 16", 16.5", 17", 18", 19" and 20" if they exist. And yes I know different brands of tires in LR E have different weight capacities.

    Bill