Forum Discussion

FireGuard's avatar
FireGuard
Explorer II
May 23, 2019

Tire size/gearing for Ram DRW

I’m getting closer to pulling the trigger on a new (2018) Ram DRW Cummins 4x4 Aisin.
I want to go back to a TC in the 10’ range and flat tow my Jeep.
I’m comparing a Tradesman model with 3:42 gears and a Laramie with 4:10.
I think for my purpose of carrying a 5k lb camper and towing 5 k lbs, the 3:42 would be plenty and would be better running empty.
I would like to add bigger tires but I think as long as the diameter is similar it shouldn’t pose a problem.
The truck comes stock with 235/80/17 which is 32” tall and 7.4” wide.
If I went up to a 275/70/17 the height is only 32.17” tall but 8.8” wide and I think the biggest I would want to go with would be a 295/70/17 at 33.25” tall and 9.8 wide.
So from my understanding the 275 wouldn’t change the gearing and maybe add a little rolling resistance due to being wider. The other 2 being an inch taller would change the gearing but probably not make too much of a difference??
I would get new rims with the proper offset rather than using spacers.
The Laramie is the granite color which is my favorite but the Tradesman is silver and $9k less. I really don’t need all the bells and whistles but the Laramie is a sweet truck.
Let’s hear your thoughts, primarily on the 3:42 vs 4:10 issues.