Question about changing from LT to P tires

[vaquero]

Hey guys; I have a 1994 K1500 1/2 ton Z71 package, and the door sticker says that it came stock with LT tires. I was just wondering if I can replace them with P rated tires or if it is really necessary to get the LTs. I don't do any towing, and at most haul a yard of bark chips or gravel in the bed if working on yard project. I noticed that most newer 1/2 ton trucks come from the factory with P tires. Just need to know before I pull the trigger on some new tires. Thanks!

 

[df2x4]

Don't put P's on it.

I put P rated tires on my '97 K1500 Suburban that called for LTs on the sticker and it rode terribly, plus the tires always had a compressed look on the bottom like they didn't have enough air, even when they were inflated to the appropriate level. I put LTs back on it this time and am much happier with the results.

 

[98chevy2500SS]

P rated tires have no business being on a full size 4x4 pickup truck. Since you say you're hauling gravel in the bed, you'll appreciate the stronger sidewall tires.

 

[Frank Enstein]

+1

 

[stutaeng]

Aren't P-rated tires for "P"assenger CARS?

 

[df2x4]

Aren't P-rated tires for "P"assenger CARS?

Traditionally yes, although some of these trucks got them from the factory. My red C1500 calls for P rated tires on the sticker, but I run LTs on it now anyway. No complaints, and I have no plans to go back to Ps on it.

 

[vaquero]

Aren't P-rated tires for "P"assenger CARS?

Not necessarily. P stands for 'passenger' but the application often includes SUV's and light trucks. Which is why I am asking the question and wondering what other members are using with their z71s and 4x4s.

 

[stutaeng]

Traditionally yes, although some of these trucks got them from the factory. My red C1500 calls for P rated tires on the sticker, but I run LTs on it now anyway. No complaints, and I have no plans to go back to Ps on it.

Yup, same here. I ran P rated tires on my 1500 because that's what the sticker had. I had to move some brick once. I was pretty much on the payload limit, but dang, I felt like I was going to be seasick because of how the truck rolled. Now I run LTs. They do ride a but rougher, but I'll take it.

If you don't mind that OP, I see no harm. Just keep the gravel load to 1/2 yard.

 

[vaquero]

If I do go P rated I will make sure that the load index is 117 and load range is XL. I haven't had to haul gravel in the last few years since finishing up all our projects, now I just haul camping gear

Yup, same here. I ran P rated tires on my 1500 because that's what the sticker had. I had to move some brick once. I was pretty much on the payload limit, but dang, I felt like I was going to be seasick because of how the truck rolled. Now I run LTs. They do ride a but rougher, but I'll take it.

If you don't mind that OP, I see no harm. Just keep the gravel load to 1/2 yard.

 

[Drunkcanuk]

In my humble opinion, it's better to have them (LT's) and not need them, then need them and not have them. I have 10ply E rated tires on one of my trucks, and the couple times a year I haul or tow something I am glad I have them. I just bump the pressure up in them and it's a much more confident inspiring ride. Nothing worse than a blowout with a load on.