Can I run a 215/70/14?
 

Hello all!

I’ve got a 1996 Ranger XLT with the stock 225/70/14 BFG tires. I’m starting to think it’s about time to replace them in the near future. I do not do any towing, hauling, etc. it’s just my daily driver.

Rather than spend $225+ a piece on more BFG’s in the 225 size (the picking is slim in that size period) would it be okay to run a 215/70/14 perhaps? Even if it’s listed as a “passenger car” or “minivan” tire? I wouldn’t want to go any smaller than that I would imagine (no 205 or 195, etc) but I am looking to save a few dollars if I can and get some tires that will get the job done for a significant amount of money less.

Thanks for your thoughts!

Re: Can I run a 215/70/14?
 

I'd do it. Your speedo will show a little faster than you are actually going but it shouldn't affect anything else. You might just notice a mild increase in acceleration also.

Re: Can I run a 215/70/14?
 

Tires next to brakes are one if the few things I don't personally skimp on as they are the cohesive conductor to your safety. Now whether or not that's dry or wet pavement doesn't matter. And I understand they're the similar or same tire but I mean really, how much money are you saving for a 1/4" in height and 3/8" in width? $12, 18 , 25 even over the stock size..???

Tires are generally set to GVWR of a vehicle and it's capabilities as well as abilities.

Not saying your doing anything in particular wrong, I'm just pointing out what advantage are you actually gaining?

Second of all, where are you hung them from and what exactly are you looking for, I got a couple options you could try for better pricing if your negotiations skills are a lil dusty?

Re: Can I run a 215/70/14?
 

Have you considered sourcing a set of used 15" wheels? $225 per tire is insane for a small tire like that.

If you are looking for cheper tires try the letgo app I am watching a dozen or more for sale and when the money is right and the stars align I'm going to get some mustang bullets or something equally as cool ...they have been selling for $250 with decent tires and that is the whole set of 17's

Re: Can I run a 215/70/14?
 

I’m not really looking to modify the truck in any way with other sets of wheels as that opens up having to get spacers and things like that. And I realize tires are one of the most important things you can buy for your vehicle. I’m not talking about buying some bootleg Chinese tires no one has ever heard of either lol.

For example, the BFG’s would be $500 for a set of 4 tires. I could get some Hankooks in the 215 size for $76/each which would save me about $200. In my mind it’s hard to justify spending 25% of the truck’s value just replacing tires if I can get away with safely spending less.

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Actually Walmart has some 225/70/14 Hankooks rated at “98T” for $76/piece. Glad I looked. That’s the right size and almost the same load and speed rating as the BFG’s “98S”.

Re: Can I run a 215/70/14?
 

If you run OEM wheels from a Ranger you'd have to modify absolutely nothing.

Re: Can I run a 215/70/14?
 

I was referring to the poster that mentioned running Mustang wheels. But that is good to know about the rest of the wheel line. Thanks!

I have seen people with 235/75/15 on a 2 wheel drive so clearance shouldnt be an issue at all..

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https://tiresize.com/calculator/

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I rarely settle for factory specs when it comes to wheels.....I have a car that had 165/65/14 which were hard to find and overpriced so I found a set mini cooper wheels the had the same bolt patern for less than the price of a single tire and they are 195/55/16 and they rubbed here and there but rolled fenders in and that fixed it...I am firm beleiever that the right wheel/tire combo can make most any car look better