Biggest Tires On Stock F250 4x4 (Ideal For Firewood Hauling)

Imagine transforming your dependable F250 4×4 from a work truck into a firewood-hauling beast, ready to tackle any terrain and maximize your wood-gathering efficiency. That’s the lifestyle upgrade we’re talking about. It’s about more than just bigger tires; it’s about enhancing your truck’s capabilities, improving its aesthetics, and, most importantly, making your firewood runs smoother and safer. I remember back in ’08, wrestling with undersized tires on my own F250, sinking axle-deep in mud while trying to retrieve a load of oak. That’s an experience I’m determined to help you avoid. Let’s dive into how to select the biggest tires for your stock F250 4×4, ideal for hauling firewood.

Understanding Tire Sizing for Your F250 4×4

Before we even think about slapping on the biggest tires possible, let’s decode tire sizing. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about safety, performance, and avoiding costly mistakes. The tire size is typically written as a series of numbers and letters, such as LT275/70R18.

LT: Indicates Light Truck tire. This is important for F250s, as they are designed to handle heavier loads.
275: Represents the tire’s section width in millimeters. This is the width of the tire at its widest point.
70: Is the aspect ratio, which is the percentage of the section width that represents the sidewall height. In this case, the sidewall height is 70% of 275mm.
R: Denotes Radial construction, the most common type for modern tires.
18: Is the wheel diameter in inches.

Understanding these numbers is crucial because exceeding your truck’s limitations can lead to rubbing, reduced turning radius, compromised suspension, and even damage to your vehicle.

Stock Tire Size and Factory Limitations

The stock tire size for most F250 4×4 models typically falls around LT275/65R18 or LT275/70R17. These sizes are chosen by Ford to provide a balance of ride quality, fuel efficiency, and load-carrying capacity. However, they often leave room for improvement, especially if you’re primarily using your truck for off-road work like firewood hauling.

The key limitation is the factory suspension. Without modifications, the wheel wells and suspension components have limited clearance. Exceeding this clearance will cause the tires to rub against the fenders, suspension, or frame, particularly during turns or when the suspension is compressed.

Takeaway: Know your stock tire size and understand its components. This is your baseline for determining how much bigger you can go.

Researching Maximum Tire Size on a Stock F250 4×4

Now the fun begins! Finding the sweet spot – the biggest tire you can fit without modifications. This requires research and a bit of detective work.

Online Forums and Communities

The internet is your best friend. Online forums dedicated to Ford trucks are treasure troves of information. Sites like Ford-Trucks.com, PowerStroke.org, and various F250-specific groups are filled with discussions about tire sizing.

Search Function is Key: Use the search function effectively. Try keywords like “biggest tires stock F250,” “tire size no lift,” or “F250 4×4 tire fitment.”
Read, Read, Read: Don’t just skim. Read through threads carefully. Pay attention to the specific year of the F250, as subtle differences in suspension and body design can affect tire fitment.
Look for Success Stories: Focus on threads where users have successfully installed larger tires on a stock truck without rubbing. Note the exact tire size, brand, and any specific offset of the wheels they used.
Beware of “Bro Science”: Not everything you read online is accurate. Look for information from experienced users with a track record of providing reliable advice.

From my own digging, I’ve found that many F250 owners have successfully run 35-inch tires (e.g., LT315/70R17 or LT295/70R18) on stock suspension with minimal or no rubbing. However, this can vary depending on the specific tire brand and wheel offset.

Measuring Your Wheel Well

While online research is valuable, nothing beats a good old-fashioned measurement. This will give you a more precise idea of the available space.

Turn the Wheels: Fully turn the steering wheel to both the left and right. This simulates the maximum range of motion the tires will experience.
Identify Potential Rub Points: Look for the closest points between the tire and the wheel well. This typically includes the inner fender liner, the frame, and the suspension components.
Measure the Distance: Use a tape measure or ruler to determine the distance between the tire and these potential rub points. This measurement will tell you how much extra space you have to work with.
Account for Suspension Compression: Remember that the suspension will compress when you hit bumps or carry heavy loads. To account for this, estimate how much the suspension will compress under load and subtract that amount from your measurements.

Example: Let’s say you measure 2 inches of clearance between the tire and the inner fender liner with the wheels turned. If you estimate that the suspension will compress 1 inch under load, you effectively have only 1 inch of usable space.

Consulting Tire Professionals

Don’t underestimate the value of talking to tire professionals. Visit a reputable tire shop and discuss your goals. They can offer valuable insights based on their experience and knowledge of different tire brands and sizes.

Be Specific: Clearly explain that you want the largest tire possible on a stock F250 4×4 without any modifications.
Ask About Load Ratings: Ensure the tires you choose have an adequate load rating for hauling firewood. F250s require tires with a high load rating to handle heavy loads safely.
Inquire About Test Fitting: Some tire shops may be willing to test-fit a tire on your truck to ensure it doesn’t rub. This is the best way to guarantee a proper fit.

Takeaway: Combine online research, physical measurements, and expert advice to determine the maximum tire size for your stock F250 4×4.

Top Tire Choices for Firewood Hauling on a Stock F250 4×4

Now that you understand the limitations and have done your research, let’s explore some specific tire options that are well-suited for firewood hauling on a stock F250 4×4.

All-Terrain Tires

All-terrain tires are a popular choice for trucks that see a mix of on-road and off-road use. They offer a good balance of traction, durability, and ride comfort.

BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2: A legendary all-terrain tire known for its toughness and excellent traction in a variety of conditions. It’s a reliable choice for hauling firewood over rough terrain. Many users have reported success running 35×12.50R17 or similar sizes on stock F250s with minimal rubbing.
Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac: Another popular all-terrain tire with aggressive tread patterns that provide excellent grip in mud, snow, and gravel. It’s a good option if you frequently encounter challenging conditions. Sizes like 285/75R17 or 295/70R18 are often reported to fit without issues.
Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT: A well-rounded all-terrain tire that offers a comfortable ride, good traction, and long tread life. It’s a solid choice for those who prioritize on-road comfort while still needing off-road capability. 275/70R18 or 285/70R17 sizes are typically safe bets.

Case Study: I once helped a friend upgrade his F250 with BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires in size 35×12.50R17. He used the truck primarily for hauling firewood from his property, which involved navigating muddy trails and rocky terrain. The tires significantly improved his truck’s traction and stability, making his firewood runs much safer and more efficient. He experienced very minor rubbing at full lock, but it was easily resolved by slightly adjusting the steering stops.

Mud-Terrain Tires

Mud-terrain tires are designed for extreme off-road conditions. They feature aggressive tread patterns with large blocks and wide voids to provide maximum traction in mud, sand, and loose dirt.

BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3: The successor to the legendary KM2, the KM3 offers even better traction and durability in extreme conditions. While generally not recommended for stock trucks due to potential rubbing, some users have reported success with slightly smaller sizes like 285/75R16 or 285/70R17.
Nitto Mud Grappler: A highly aggressive mud-terrain tire that’s known for its intimidating appearance and exceptional off-road performance. However, it can be noisy on the road and may require some trimming to fit on a stock F250.
Cooper Discoverer STT Pro: A mud-terrain tire that strikes a good balance between off-road performance and on-road drivability. It offers excellent traction in mud and snow while still providing a relatively comfortable ride.

Important Note: Mud-terrain tires are generally not recommended for primarily on-road use. They can be noisy, wear quickly, and reduce fuel efficiency. However, if you frequently encounter extremely muddy or challenging conditions, they may be worth considering.

Hybrid Tires

Hybrid tires combine the best features of all-terrain and mud-terrain tires. They offer a good balance of on-road comfort, off-road traction, and durability.

Nitto Ridge Grappler: A popular hybrid tire that’s known for its aggressive appearance and excellent performance in a variety of conditions. It offers a good balance of on-road comfort and off-road traction, making it a versatile choice for firewood hauling. Sizes like 295/70R18 or 35×12.50R17 are often reported to fit with minimal rubbing.
Toyo Open Country R/T: Another excellent hybrid tire that offers a smooth ride, good traction, and long tread life. It’s a solid choice for those who want a tire that can handle both on-road and off-road driving with ease.

Takeaway: Choose tires based on your specific needs and driving conditions. All-terrain tires are a good all-around choice, while mud-terrain tires are best for extreme off-road use. Hybrid tires offer a balance of both.

Wheel Considerations: Offset and Backspacing

Tire size isn’t the only factor affecting fitment. Wheel offset and backspacing play a crucial role.

Offset: The distance in millimeters between the wheel’s mounting surface and its centerline. A positive offset means the mounting surface is closer to the outside of the wheel, while a negative offset means it’s closer to the inside.
Backspacing: The distance in inches from the wheel’s mounting surface to the inside edge of the wheel.

A wheel with incorrect offset or backspacing can cause the tire to rub against the suspension components or the fender, even if the tire size itself is within the recommended range.

Stock Wheel Offset: The stock wheel offset for most F250 models is typically around +40mm to +44mm.

Impact on Tire Fitment:

Positive Offset: Pushes the wheel and tire further inward, potentially causing rubbing on the suspension components.
Negative Offset: Pushes the wheel and tire further outward, potentially causing rubbing on the fender.

Finding the Right Offset:

Consult Tire Professionals: This is where their expertise shines. They can recommend wheels with the correct offset to maximize tire clearance and prevent rubbing.
Online Resources: Some websites offer offset calculators that can help you determine the ideal offset for your truck based on your desired tire size.
Read Forum Discussions: Pay attention to what other F250 owners have used successfully. Look for specific offset numbers and backspacing measurements.

Takeaway: Wheel offset and backspacing are critical for proper tire fitment. Choose wheels that complement your tire size and provide adequate clearance.

Addressing Potential Rubbing Issues

Even with careful planning, you might still experience some minor rubbing, especially at full steering lock or when the suspension is compressed. Here’s how to address it.

Trimming the Inner Fender Liner

This is the most common solution for minor rubbing. The inner fender liner is a plastic or rubber shield that protects the engine compartment from debris.

Identify the Rub Point: Have someone turn the steering wheel while you observe where the tire is rubbing on the inner fender liner.
Mark the Area: Use a marker to outline the area that needs to be trimmed.
Trim Carefully: Use a utility knife, rotary tool (like a Dremel), or a heat gun to carefully trim away the excess material.
Test Fit: After trimming, turn the steering wheel fully and check for any remaining rubbing. Repeat the process if necessary.

Important Note: Be careful not to cut any wires or hoses behind the inner fender liner.

Adjusting Steering Stops

Steering stops are small bolts or screws that limit the range of motion of the steering system. Adjusting them can prevent the tires from rubbing at full lock.

Locate the Steering Stops: They are typically located on the steering knuckles or the lower control arms.
Loosen the Lock Nut: Use a wrench to loosen the lock nut on the steering stop.
Adjust the Stop: Turn the stop screw inward to reduce the range of motion of the steering system.
Tighten the Lock Nut: Once you’ve made the adjustment, tighten the lock nut to secure the stop in place.
Test Drive: Test drive the truck to ensure that the adjustment has eliminated the rubbing and that the steering still feels comfortable.

Important Note: Adjusting the steering stops will reduce your turning radius. Make small adjustments and test drive the truck after each adjustment to avoid over-limiting the steering.

Using Wheel Spacers (Use with Caution)

Wheel spacers are metal discs that are installed between the wheel and the hub. They effectively increase the wheel offset, pushing the wheel and tire further outward.

Pros:

Can provide additional clearance for larger tires.
Can improve the truck’s stance.

Cons:

Can put additional stress on the wheel bearings and suspension components.
Can affect handling and stability.
May be illegal in some areas.

If you choose to use wheel spacers, it’s crucial to:

Use high-quality spacers: Avoid cheap spacers made from inferior materials.
Use hub-centric spacers: These spacers are designed to fit snugly against the hub, providing better support and reducing the risk of vibration.
Torque the lug nuts properly: Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Re-torque the lug nuts after 50-100 miles: This ensures that the lug nuts are properly seated.

Takeaway: Address rubbing issues with careful trimming or steering stop adjustments. Use wheel spacers only as a last resort and with extreme caution.

The Importance of Load Ratings for Firewood Hauling

Hauling firewood puts a significant strain on your truck’s tires. It’s crucial to choose tires with an adequate load rating to ensure safety and prevent tire failure.

Load Rating: A numerical code that indicates the maximum weight a tire can carry when properly inflated.
Load Index: A corresponding number that represents the load rating in pounds or kilograms.

Finding the Load Rating: The load rating is typically found on the tire’s sidewall, following the tire size. For example, a tire with a load rating of 121 would have a load index of 121, which corresponds to a maximum load capacity of 3200 lbs per tire.

Calculating Your Truck’s Load Capacity:

Find Your Truck’s GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): This is the maximum weight your truck can safely carry, including the weight of the truck itself, passengers, cargo, and fuel. The GVWR is typically found on a sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb.
Divide GVWR by 2: This gives you the maximum weight that each axle can carry.
Divide the Axle Weight by 2: This gives you the minimum load rating required for each tire.

Example:

Your F250 has a GVWR of 10,000 lbs.
Each axle can carry a maximum of 5,000 lbs.
Each tire must have a load rating of at least 2,500 lbs.

Selecting Tires with Adequate Load Rating:

Choose tires with a load rating that meets or exceeds the calculated minimum load rating for your truck.
Err on the side of caution. It’s always better to choose tires with a higher load rating than you think you need.

Important Note: Using tires with an inadequate load rating can lead to tire failure, loss of control, and serious accidents.

Takeaway: Prioritize load ratings when choosing tires for firewood hauling. Ensure that the tires you select can safely handle the weight of your truck and the firewood you’re carrying.

Maintaining Your Tires for Optimal Performance and Longevity

Proper tire maintenance is essential for ensuring optimal performance, safety, and longevity.

Tire Pressure

Check Tire Pressure Regularly: Check your tire pressure at least once a month, and before any long trips or heavy loads.
Use a Reliable Tire Pressure Gauge: Don’t rely on the gauges at gas stations, as they are often inaccurate.
Inflate to the Recommended Pressure: The recommended tire pressure is typically found on a sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual.
Adjust for Load: If you’re carrying a heavy load of firewood, you may need to increase the tire pressure slightly to compensate. Consult your tire manufacturer’s recommendations for load-specific inflation pressures.

Important Note: Never exceed the maximum tire pressure listed on the tire’s sidewall.

Tire Rotation

Rotate Your Tires Regularly: Tire rotation helps to distribute wear evenly, extending the life of your tires.
Follow the Recommended Rotation Pattern: The recommended rotation pattern is typically found in the owner’s manual.
Rotate Every 5,000-7,000 Miles: This is a general guideline, but you may need to rotate more frequently if you notice uneven wear.

Wheel Alignment

Get Your Wheels Aligned Regularly: Proper wheel alignment ensures that your tires are wearing evenly and that your truck is handling properly.
Check Alignment After Major Impacts: If you hit a curb or pothole hard, it’s a good idea to have your alignment checked.

Visual Inspection

Inspect Your Tires Regularly: Look for signs of wear, damage, or uneven wear patterns.
Check for Cuts, Bulges, or Sidewall Damage: These can indicate a serious problem that could lead to tire failure.
Monitor Tread Depth: Use a tread depth gauge to measure the tread depth of your tires. Replace your tires when the tread depth reaches the minimum legal limit (typically 2/32 of an inch).

Takeaway: Consistent tire maintenance, including regular pressure checks, rotations, alignments, and visual inspections, will help you get the most out of your tires and ensure your safety.

Safety Considerations for Hauling Firewood

Hauling firewood can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken.

Secure the Load

Use Straps or Chains: Secure the firewood with heavy-duty straps or chains to prevent it from shifting during transport.
Distribute the Load Evenly: Distribute the firewood evenly in the truck bed to maintain balance and prevent overloading one side of the truck.
Cover the Load: Use a tarp or net to cover the firewood and prevent loose pieces from falling out.

Drive Safely

Drive Slower: Reduce your speed when hauling firewood, especially on rough or uneven roads.
Increase Following Distance: Allow for extra following distance to give yourself more time to react to unexpected situations.
Avoid Sudden Braking: Brake gradually to prevent the firewood from shifting and potentially causing a loss of control.

Check Your Equipment

Inspect Your Straps or Chains: Before each trip, inspect your straps or chains for signs of wear or damage. Replace them if necessary.
Check Your Lights: Ensure that all of your truck’s lights are working properly.
Check Your Brakes: Make sure your brakes are in good working order.

Wear Appropriate Gear

Wear Gloves: Protect your hands from splinters and rough wood.
Wear Eye Protection: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
Wear Sturdy Boots: Protect your feet from injury.

Takeaway: Hauling firewood safely requires careful planning, secure loading, cautious driving, and regular equipment checks. Prioritize safety to protect yourself and others.

Equipping your stock F250 4×4 with the biggest possible tires for firewood hauling is a worthwhile upgrade that can significantly improve your truck’s capabilities and make your wood-gathering tasks more efficient and enjoyable. Remember, it’s not just about the size; it’s about choosing the right tires for your specific needs, ensuring proper fitment, and maintaining them properly. Happy hauling!