New Van Wheel and Tire Options

[B00klover]

I'm getting a new Westfalia van built on a 2024 Ram Promaster 3500. It's got a GVWR of 9350 lbs and a GCWR of 11,500 lbs. I want wider tires and a broader track without messing too much with the tire size. It comes with 16"x6" alloy wheels and Nexen Roadian CT8 HL 225/75R16C tires.

I'm looking at switching to Method 707 matte black wheels, 17x7.5, and pairing them with Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 LT245/65r17 tires. These tires are a bit bigger, about 0.5" more in diameter, with a load index of 117 (2833 lbs). Some folks stick to 16" tires like LT245/70r16, which adds 1" to the diameter, or go for the common LT245/70r17, which bumps it up 1.5". The 17" with a 65 aspect ratio seems nice, but tire choices are slim.

So, does this setup make sense for my van? Is the 117 load index cutting it too close? !

 

[fast&curious]

The setup should work well, but be aware that there is limited choice for 17" tires. The increase of 0.5" more in diameter though won't make issues.

 

[frankenstein]

117 load index technically works, but it's cutting it close, especially loaded. You might get better options and peace of mind with 245/70R16s, method 707s are great wheels, just make sure the fit clears and you're okay with the gearing change.

 

[Courtney L.]

The setup should work well, but be aware that there is limited choice for 17" tires. The increase of 0.5" more in diameter though won't make issues.

I agree. If you go for bigger, you're always gonna need a lot more. Wheel spacers or something.

 

[strandedwolf54]

Some good points made by everyone here. I also err on the side of caution with load ratings for a heavy rig like your Westfalia. I once picked tires that were just adequate for my ProMaster conversion for a long trip through the Rockies. While they held up fine, I definitely wished for more peace of mind so the suggestion for looking at 16s with more tire options is good food for thought.