Will 265/70R16 tires work on stock Rubicon? Why doesn't anyone use this size?

dale5150

dale5150

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I dont want to lift or go taller but wouldnt mind a little wider tire. I have 31x10.5 on my X. I found a set of 265 70 16s and it looks like they are just a tad wider and same height as my 245 75 16s. Will they rub on moab wheels and why doesnt anyone use this size?
 
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Hey @dale5150 !
I run the 265/75/16 size tires on my bone stock LJR and I really like them a lot. They do rub very slightly when backing up and turning the wheel to a full lock, but it's not really a huge deal. I was debating on swapping them out for 31x10.50 16s but the more I think about it, I'm sure I'll stick with the 265's. They work great for me, and look a little beefier than the stock 245's.
 
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I run them on my 06 X. I bought a set (265 75R 16) of Open Range tires, Load Range C from Les Schwab and have zero rubbing issues. Stock suspension, and a 1 inch body lift for the Genright extended range gas tank.
Ray

Open Range 365 75R 16 load Range C.jpg


Open Range, 265 75R 16 Load Range C.jpg
 
I am asking about 265 70 16 specifically, not 265 75 16.
 
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We are trying to give you the information that we have. The 70 will be slightly shorter but the same width as the 75 tire. I've had 2 different brands of 265/75R16 on stock Rubi tires and had no rubbing or turning issues. So either you will have no rub or a very slight rub on turns depending on what backspacing your rims have.
 
I appreciate the replies. That is what I am afraid of. The reason people never use them. I think they would look better because they are similar to the 31x10.5 on my x but it is hard to take a chance and be wrong. I know the 245 75s look ok.
 
dale5150 said:
I appreciate the replies. That is what I am afraid of. The reason people never use them. I think they would look better because they are similar to the 31x10.5 on my x but it is hard to take a chance and be wrong. I know the 245 75s look ok.
Click to expand...

Maybe find a cheap used one and mount it on your wheel, then your Jeep for a test fit. Kind of a PITA, but at least you would know for sure, before you search for a new set.
Ray
 
31x10.5R16 typically measure 31" dia. x 10.5" wide, 651 revs/mile.

245/75R16 typically measure 30.5" dia. x 9.6" wide, 662 revs/mile.

265/70R16 typically measure 30.6" dia. x 10.4" wide, 659 revs/mile.

265/75R16 typically measure 31.6" x 10.4" wide, 638 revs/mile.

All will fit on stock Moab wheels.

None should have any issues with rubbing.


If I were choosing a metric tire to replace a 31x10.50R16 I would probably choose a LT265/75R16 for the extra height, but if you don't want any extra height a LT265/70R16 would be the closest to the tire size you have now.

There are many non-Jeep-brand overlanders who run LT265/70R16 and LT265/75R16 tires on their rigs with success.

I have a set of Cooper Discoverer AT3 tires on my Xterra, LT265/75R16-C, that recently completed a month long overlanding trip to Cabo San Lucas with zero issues. I recommend them and I'm sure they are available in 265/70R16. [They replaced a set of same size Cooper Discoverer ST/Maxx which I also highly recommend even though they are load range E.]

YMMV
 
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I would guess because 265/70R16 is primarily produced as a P rated size, and most people want an LT in a C load range (6 ply rated) for durability. Also the 265/75R16 is a super common size and almost every manufacturer makes it in no less than 3 load indexes, usually P, LT LRC (6 ply rated), and LT LRE (10 ply rated).

265 is 20mm wider than 245. So about 3/4 of an inch. Dunno if they will rub though.
 
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