I just bought a 2003 Chevy 3500 dually and was wondering if anyone here has replaced the OEM wheels and tires with the popular 19.5" versions. I was thinking of going with these when the current tires go south. Any input?? Steve
The Factory 16", although I haven't actually checked the tire size. I assume that it's a 215/85R16/D or E. Steve
Yes, the "cool factor" is one reason I want to switch to them, but the handling improvements and long tire wear are the main reasons. I also heard that because of the 12 ply construction, getting a flat is fairly rare, which makes it nice for long trips towing a heavy trailer. Steve
I dont have them but have read a lot about them. They say you'll get twice as much milage out of them (tread wear) because they run cooler. They look killer too! :TU:
Go to ... www.RICKSONTRUCK.com or google Rickson Wheel for the most up to date info. I have been to their facility and they are the "19.5 GUYS" Matt
To use 22.5's you need to run adapters. All I can say is...Don't do it. I'd be happy to elaborate, but they ride terrible, kill your gearing, stick out past the fender, and make the attaching very complicated. As far as 19.5's, Matt is right. I've owned many GS's and my company (www.ricksontruck.com) manufactures direct replacement wheels for all of the 3/4 and one-ton SRW and DRW trucks. We make them in both steel and forged aluminum and in different widths depending on what 19.5" tire size you run. On the GM trucks (and all DRW for that matter), I always recommend the 225/70R19.5 and also recommend running a steer (highway rib) tire in the front and a drive (M&S) tire in the back and only do a side to side rotation of you need to. This is what you'll see on almost all commercial trucks. You're correct in that you'll typically see significantly better tire mileage, stability and handling, and safety. The steering input is much more precise. One of the biggest issues, because these tires are so tough, is getting to not vibrate. We have a very specific process that we use to match mount the tire to the wheel to reduce the radial runout, or out of round of the assembly. Out of round assemblies are the biggest part of vibrations, whether it's on a GS, a dually, or a tractor-trailer, but in this case the tire is very heavy-duty compared to the truck and will easily cause a vibration. Let me know if you need more information. My number is 800-587-7633 and my e-mail is dan@ricksontruck.com.
Super info! I'm also glad to have a connection now! :TU: Next year when my tires are worn out I'll get in touch. I like your idea to run a highway tire in front and ones with a little more traction out back. I thought of doing this from the beginning. Also it's good to know about the vibration issues. Having a "one stop shop" will be nice. Thanks again for all the info! Steve
Hey Steve...I have a brand new, never out of the box stainless simulators for the 16's if you don't have them already.
Thanks Perry, but that's what it has now. Someday when I save up enough I'll buy the 19.5"s. Thanks anyway!!
