Hello everyone. I hope I can get some guidance on this controversial topic.

Ive been on the phone with Toyo, Nitto, a local truck accessory place and discount tire....and no one really seems to know. To top it off, I've been told 2 different things. Im curious to see what some of the experts around here think.

Ive noticed that certain load range E tires (10 ply) have higher load ratings than an equivalent size load range F tire (12 ply) and I have no idea how to make sense of that. Even more confusing, I have no idea how to choose. Do I go with the load range knowing F is stiffer with 2 additional plys? Or do I go with load rating and pick the E tire that has the higher load rating.

I will be towing a 16,000 lb fifth wheel toy hauler, fully loaded 20,000 lbs, with an F450. Forged aftermarket wheels. Tow rating 4,000 per wheels = 24,000 lbs total rating.

Example of the tires.

Nitto ridge grappler 35x12.50R22LT Load range F
O.D 34.76
Width 12.52
Load rating 3195 @ 80 (3195 x 6 = 19,170)

Nitto Ridge grappler LT295/55R22 Load range E
O.D. 34.76
Width 12.17
Load rating 3640 @ 80 (3640 x 6 = 21,840)

So how is it possible that the load range E tire, which is the exact same height and not as wide, have a higher load rating then the equivalent Load range F tire?????

How do I choose? Do I go with the stiffer tire and ignore the weight? That seems dumb.

My understanding is the weight is what I need to worry about.


Thanks ahead of time for the clarification.

RJM

 

Depends on the way the tire was built the way the cords ran thickness abd material used. . There is a lot that goes in a tire. Personally I would stick to the load range the manufacturer suggests. If a 295/55/20 load E is used put that on there. . Stiffer tires don’t necessarily mean better tow tires.