One of the few things I don't like about my 450 is the switch they made to 17" wheels. This past weekend we were headed to Myrtle Beach and a late model 350 strolled by and it sure looked like it 19.5" or larger wheels.

Another thing I don't really care for is the 4.30 rear end of my 450. I know that's the primary reason its a 450 but I still think its totally unnecessary. I would be totally content with a 3.73 back there.

Two questions:
1. Would the 19.5" Alcoa wheels from the 2008-2010 trucks fit my truck with no mods?

2. Not sure of the tire size they came with, but is the wheel and tire combo fairly larger in diameter than what I have right now? If so, at least that would help a little with bringing some rpm's down on the highway.

Thanks

 

Sorry I can't help much with your questions. Have the 19.5 rims on a 2000 F450 and until I sold it a 2008 F450. Got about 46000 on the Continental HSR and HDR rubber which was great but the hard rubber compound made driving in muddy or snowy areas almost impossible at times. Even with max GVW weight I never like the traction (yes I used 4X4). Another downside is Discount Tire wont touch them after they had a accident some time age.

 

The 2008-2010 F-450 wheels will not bolt right up without adapters. The 2008-2010 wheels were 10 lug wheels where the '11-'13 models have 8 lugs.

Also, you're right about the tire height of the '08-'10 versus the '11-'13 being taller. It would reduce you're effective ratio to a degree but you'll also be adding a little more rolling resistance and six heavier tires and wheels. I doubt you'd see much gain in MPGs.

 

Rickson will make you a set of bolt on 19.5 inch wheels. Contact them. The tire/wheel combination does not always have to be larger than what you have.

Rickson Wheel Manufacturing

 

American Force Wheels has some nice stuff but they ain't cheap.

 

I never liked the fact that they changed to 17 inch wheels either, but if I remeber correctly I belive that I read that Ford changed them for possibly better fuel mileage and definitely for better ride quality because withe 17 inch wheel vs a 19.5 you have a lot more tire to absorb the bumbs and bounces. My Dad has the 19.5s on his 2006 and the ride can be pretty rough sometimes, but its not that bad. I've just gotten used to it, I acually kind of like it because it reminds me that I'm riding/driving in a big, bad a$$ truck, and not some ricer. Sorry, but I'm not sure if they will bolt right up or not. My Dad runs 225x70 Continental HSRs in the front, which is the stock tires size for that year. I'm not sure about the rear but I know its the same size. Also with the 17 inch rim you will have a much greater selection in tires, sizes and brands. With the 19.5 you will probably only be able to choose from commercial tires, and probably have limited sizes to choose from. Hope this helped.