Hey, I need new rubber for the winter and I've narrowed it down to two options.

I've got a 2004 Fx4 and I'm putting the 2" autospring leveling kit on the front and nothing in the back. Pretty sure I have a 3.73 rear end. I'm looking to use the stock 18" fX4 rims.

I've seen trucks on the forum running both so it seems they both work but I'm wondering since it's a fairly common setup has anyone tried both? Or has felt the difference of torque loss etc.

I'd like to go to the 305s for the more aggressive look but I don't want to sacrifice all my towing power.

Thanks!

 

I know you didn't ask about this tire, but you might also check out the Nitto Terra Grapplers in a 295/70R18. They are a little over 34" tall and about 11.5" wide I think. They are also WAY cheaper. I first started looking at the BFG AT, but they didn't have a size close enough to a 35" tire for me other than the metric size that converts out to about 13" wide. I'm coming from 35x12.50R18 BFG KM2's and I want to keep as close to that as possible in sizing, but step down to an all terrain. A buddy just got a set on his F150 a few months ago and loves them. He's used them out in the field several times and said they did well in the mud for an all terrain.

 

I've seen those tires and I"ll consider them if they are available locally (I'm in Canada).

Same question applies to those I guess. Since the the Nitto's and the 305 BFG are around 34 inches.

 

Any size larger than stock will negatively affect towing. To what extent depends on what size u end up going with. With that being said, I towed my 5000 pound tt, with a 4 wheeler and dirtbike in the bed and it did just fine in my opinion. I have 3.55 gears and 285/70/17 tires. Can definitely tell its back there but maintained 50 or better up some pretty steep grades. What do you tow? Acceptable performance seems to be in the eye of beholder. What's fine for some would be unacceptable for others.
Setup

 

When I'm loaded up it's usually with a couple ATVs and a load of fire wood or whatever nothing very extreme. But I'd like to be able to handle larger stuff if need be.

A second thought, There is also the 275/70R18 option for BFGs. My truck is my daily driver in the winter. Are narrower tires better in the winter or is that myth? They are cheaper anyways and maybe weigh a little less.

 

The thinner tires will also be within spec for your 7.5 inch wide stock wheels where the 305 I believe calls for 8.5 with a 65 series sidewall. Not sure if the thinner tires are better in the snow, but I think the theory is as follows, the thin tires will be able to dig to solid ground better where the wider tires will float more. I think the 275 would look good.