I know i can do at least 235/70/16

Is it possible to go thinner?

Stock is 245/70/16

Does a thinner tire give more traction?

 

thinner tire = higher contact pressure (more weight per contact patch surface area), lower flotation (water can escape out from under the tire easier)

wider tire = lower contact pressure (less weight per contact patch surface area), higher flotation (water can become trapped under the centerline of the tire if the tread isn't designed right)

By classic definition, a wider tire gives more grip in the dry.

The graph of general traction (dry/wet/ice/snow/etc) versus tire width is a parabola. But the actual formula, I don't know of. Basically, I think every dakota here on this website has 255's or 265's, and a few have 275's I think.

 

Why would you want such a "thin" or narrow tire?

 

i've got 235/60s (9.5" treadwidth 26" tall) on an 8 inch wide wheel

thin tires rarely give more traction, in thick mud they will dig down to the firm ground under the muck,
in snow they do the same
and they dont hydroplane as much. sure,

but they will have much less traction driving on dry ground, so unless all of your driving is in bad conditions id stay with the 235s

 

for my 20s and when i lower it i HAVE to settle for a 265/30r20 to accomidate the 2 inch drop up front and a 20 inch rim

 

basically, what I said, without all the wording and technicalities.

 

I saw the Firestone Winterforce makes a 225/75/16.
Load Range XL.

I also looked into 215/85/16 : but I am a little concerned about the harder ride and the wear that will do to my truck.
[b/c they are Heavy Duty Tires]

My Intentions:
Better Fuel Economy (thinner tire)
Better Traction: 2WD
I do not want to cause stress to my powertrain.

Considering
Firestone Winterforce
Destination LE or AT

Something with a bit of an aggressive tread and some siping...I don't want to be screwed in the snow with a 2WD...