I have a 2002 Ford Explorer XLT 4WD

Anyone ever put Uniroyal Laredo Cross Country's on this vehicle? I have been sticking with the Michelin Cross Terrain because I have read that Ford recommends sticking with the same type tire, but they are so expensive, I am looking for a less expensive alternative. I have also seen BF Goodrich Rugged trails as OEM on the Explorers, so I figure what Ford is saying is BS.

 

I have the Uniroyal Laredo Cross Country's on my Suburban in a 265/75-16 size and they are really great tires for the $$$. I've got just over 43,000 miles on them with a lot of tread left yet. The snow and rain traction is good too. I plan to but them again for the 'Burb when these wear out.

 

Hi

Ford is right on this that they only want a certian type of tire on the Explorers.

29" is the height.

I put a set of the Laredo® Cross Country P235/70R16's on my 04 XLT 4X4 4.6L and they work great. Came with the Michelin Cross Terrain 104S
and the Uniroyal's are as good or better. Don't question yourself on this --no difference between the tires only the price. Where I live we had almost 17' of snow over the winter os 2007 and they worked great. We also get to 90 deg F in the summer and they are great. Have over 30,000 miles on them and they should easily hit 100,000 miles.

If you do use another type of tire that is not a 29" height then you will have to change the spare with the same tires that are on the road. If one tire gets a flat and you use the different size spare then kiss your transfer case goodby.
This happened at a dealer where I live and they had to buy a new case for their customer (wasn't me).

You can probably go up a few sizes without any problems but you must purchase *** 5 tires not 4*** or your Explorer will be towed either way.