Towing with Rims

(premierwake136)

i have a 2003 chevy avalanche
ive been wanting to put new rims on it but im worried about my towing ability
if any one is in the same situation or tows with rims, please help
thanks

(my_malibu) · (my_malibu) **Join Date: Feb 2008** 03-27-2008, 12:17 PM

towing ability will be affected in two ways

1 bigger rims and tires weigh more therefor longer stopping distance and increased strain on the drive train you can solve this with bigger brakes and re- gearing of course this depends on how much bigger you go
can go larger rims smaller profile tire and stay close to stock

2 smaller profile tires tow a little better because the side walls don't flex as much
JUST BE SURE TO GET A D OR E weight RATING

(rzrich) · (rzrich) **Join Date: Aug 2006** 03-27-2008, 12:19 PM

I tow a Sanger V230 with an 03 Suburban with 20s and I did notice a slight loss on pulling power and braking. With 20s it's not enough to worry about (in my case) but I think with 22s or bigger you should look at beefing up the brakes. Of course this all depends on what and where you're towing.

(detonate69) · (detonate69) **Join Date: Apr 2001** 03-27-2008, 12:23 PM

I have an 05 Expedition with 20's & 33"x13.50" tires. Tows my MC PS205 great, and we load that thing down with gear & lead. Gas mileage sucks, but no problems towing.

(pdxviperguy) · (pdxviperguy) **Join Date: Jul 2006** 03-27-2008, 12:56 PM

I would consult whoever you are buying your rims for from on load ratings. I have trucks with rims that range in size from stock all the way up to one with 26" rims on it that I have towed with. Probably not the best idea but only short distances, lol. Accidents dont happen near home, right? ;-)

(ripr) · (ripr) **Join Date: Mar 2002** 03-27-2008, 1:29 PM

Kevin, it really depends on how big you want and what you're towing.

I have a Yukon and tow with 22's. No issues at all, stock brakes.

24's and up and you'll definetly may wanna beef up the brakes, but it's your call.

Who needs safe when you have the cool factor? lol

(jonblarc7) · (jonblarc7) **Join Date: Jul 2006** 03-27-2008, 1:29 PM

I tow with an 03 silverado with 20's and 33 x 12.50 mud tires and it does fine.

(detonate69) · (detonate69) **Join Date: Apr 2001** 03-27-2008, 2:06 PM

Tire rating is definately an important factor to look into. My tires are rated at 3,085# ea. for a total of 12,340# way more than needed but a good piece of mind. Keep in mind the rating on some low profile tires are barely enough for just the truck. Check it out, do the math, and if it balances out you are A OK!

(cavlxenvy) · (cavlxenvy) **Join Date: Aug 2007** 03-27-2008, 4:40 PM

If you're worried, it would be a good idea to upgrade your brakes.