Why 20" wheels
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New User
Joined: Sep 2013
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Why 20" wheels
Just bought a new to me 2011 F250 King Ranch CrewCab w/6.7 Powerstroke, auto, 4x4, 3.55 gear, FX4 offroad option, and loaded including these huge wheels. So, what is the functional reason why I'd want to keep the the big wheels? Per the Michelin website, they are taller than the factory standard 18" and effectively reduce the gear ratio from 3.55 to something in the 3.4x range. Sure, they are pretty, that I get. Is that all? Thanks.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 1,504
Likes: 8
From: Indian Falls, New York
^^^and theoretically better handling which is why you see them on most sports cars these days and other cars in general.
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New User
Joined: Sep 2013
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Great answers, thanks. I guess BLING was important to the original owner. Thanks for the heads up about reduced carrying capacity, I need to check that out. Not ready to make a change at this point since I'm planning to use it more for the towing convenience of my boat rather than carrying capacity....but there's the possibility of finding a used truck camper...and that plus tongue weight would impact carrying capacity. Thanks guys.
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Elder User
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 551
Likes: 1
From: SW Montana
Like said, the bling factor and better handling. However, at recommended inflation pressures, these trucks handle good for a truck. All the lower profile tires do is create a harsh ride. If you plan on doing anything offroad, even if it is just down some country lane with potholes or tree roots you want the most flexible sidewall to absorb the shock. Just ride in a stock vehicle with stock tires and one where the owner has opted for low profile wheel and tire combo. The low profile setup is much more harsh. In direct proportion to how low of a profile tire is used. On these trucks, I believe the minimum wheel now that will work is 17 inches with only the most basic trucks with that size. Most trim leves have 18 inch with the premium "bling" models 20 inchers. But then how many king ranches actually see a dirt road let alone true off-road.
BTW, the same tire in smaller wheel sizes but same overall sizes are way cheaper.
BTW, the same tire in smaller wheel sizes but same overall sizes are way cheaper.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 1,504
Likes: 8
From: Indian Falls, New York
Like said, the bling factor and better handling. However, at recommended inflation pressures, these trucks handle good for a truck. All the lower profile tires do is create a harsh ride. If you plan on doing anything offroad, even if it is just down some country lane with potholes or tree roots you want the most flexible sidewall to absorb the shock. Just ride in a stock vehicle with stock tires and one where the owner has opted for low profile wheel and tire combo. The low profile setup is much more harsh. In direct proportion to how low of a profile tire is used. On these trucks, I believe the minimum wheel now that will work is 17 inches with only the most basic trucks with that size. Most trim leves have 18 inch with the premium "bling" models 20 inchers. But then how many king ranches actually see a dirt road let alone true off-road.
BTW, the same tire in smaller wheel sizes but same overall sizes are way cheaper.
BTW, the same tire in smaller wheel sizes but same overall sizes are way cheaper.
Hotshot
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 10,101
Likes: 40
From: Pa
The bling factor and marginal handling benefit is about it. Not worth the extra weight, even harsher ride, increased cost of tires, more chance of damaging the rims and etc IMO. If you want a vehicle that takes corners well a 6k-8k lb truck is not where it is at. The smallest available wheel option in aluminum is what I buy.
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 288
Likes: 1
From: near Montreal, Canada
That being said I'm glad mine has 18" wheels and not 20". My previous 2005 MDX had 17" wheels and the 2008 MDX has 18"; the ride is so much harsher. Maybe some people like taking corners 10% faster in their new SUV; I prefer taking potholes easier the rest of the time.
Senior User
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 221
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I agree. Having 33s and even 235s on mine rides a hell of a lot smoother than low profile trucks, plus I hate how they look. They don't look like trucks anymore, they look like they are catering to babies who are afraid to get dirty. For god sakes build a real truck again, one designed to do work with less comfort.
Elder User
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 551
Likes: 1
From: SW Montana
GVS
I disagree with you on the manual trannys. I believe they quite manuals because of the tune and output of these engines, most people would be tearing the drivetrains apart with improper use. In addition, the autos are as capable as any manual is without going to extreme heavy duty units found in bigger trucks.
the auto flat out works and works hard, regardless of the ya-ho driving it.
I disagree with you on the manual trannys. I believe they quite manuals because of the tune and output of these engines, most people would be tearing the drivetrains apart with improper use. In addition, the autos are as capable as any manual is without going to extreme heavy duty units found in bigger trucks.
the auto flat out works and works hard, regardless of the ya-ho driving it.