I have a 98 4runner SR5 with rear locker, Racerunner coils up front, OME springs and Bilsteins in back, 17" Tundra rims and 265/70-17 BFG AT C range tires. Plenty of tread but they are dry rotted. I do not want to wheel with them and need to get some new treads this year.

I have been thinking of jumping to 285s possibly, but worry about rubbing when airing down and rock climbing. Plus I will not be regearing so do not want to make it too much of a slug. Its a 5 speed with 4:30 gearing is what the previous owner said I never verified. Said it was a rare model to have that gearing and a 5 speed.

Anyhow, most tires in 265/70-17 or 285/70-17 are E range...what gives?!? Who wants a 10 ply, heavy, stiff tire on a small 4x4 that is not used for towing? Why do they not offer more load ranges? I know the BFG ATs I have now still have C range, so I could get another set of them, but am curious to try something new.

I like the new Fun Country, but only E range. Most of the other tires that I seem to like, even the BFG Rugged Terrain comes either in P or E, nothing in between!!! Cooper ST has a C in 265 as well 275/7017 so I am curious about trying them out possibly. Discount tire sells the Cooper ATP I think it is, tread looks nice but only comes in E range.

Yea...whats the deal that most tires only come in passenger rated range or E range?!?!!?

I am looking at All Terrains, not MTs and not highway treads that might be in C range like GY Silent Armor or other super mild looking treads. The GY Duratrac looks nice but Ive read lots of threads of complaints of sidewall issues and flats when wheeling, plus its expensive.

Mickey Thompson STZ, ATZ, and even the MTZ look nice but prices are super higher than other brands...

Many folks seem to rave about the Nitto AT, but on other forums I see plenty of threads people who really wheel hard think they are junk....

Tire shopping is confusing! Some people say go ahead with E range will not be a big deal, but 10 pounds heavier per tire than a C range sounds like a lot, and 10 ply stiff sidewall doesnt seem like it would help ride quality at all.