The Michelin LTX M/S (mud & snow) is worth a look. I went through two sets on my 1992 Dakota and got 50-70K each time.

EXCELLENT on the street and in rain. Good traction, resisted hydroplaning, and QUIET. They were fabulous in the snow as well.

 

General grabbed at2, are always over looked similar to duratrac tires. Way cheaper though, did research on line. Talked to guys I know to, that is what I am getting.

 

Anyone running 275/65/18's? If not you think there would be a little rub?

 

That's a little over 32", I'd say you would definitely rub. Or you would be trimming quite a bit.

 

I've already got the stuff to do a Daystar 2" over-the-strut leveling kit in the front, combined with 2" lift blocks in the rear. (My truck has an A.R.E. deluxe utility series shell and sits pretty level.)

My two questions are:

1) Will the factory 245/70R16 tires look stupid after the lift?

2) If so, will 265/70R16 or 265/75R16 tires fit on the same wheels?

I'm willing to do a modest lift. (I'm looking for ground clearance.) I don't really want to buy new WHEELS in addition to new tires. What's on there right now is practically new; but it's a cheap unknown brand ("Runway Enduro HT") tire.

 

my Nitto Terra graplers where reasonably priced and have held up well so far. and they are 265/70/16 with no rub on stock wheels and ride height.

 

Well, it would definitely look better with a bigger tire. I guess you'll find out when you install the leveling kit and blocks. But if you go with a bigger tire, you'll also get another 1/2" (at least) of lift as a bonus. The 265/70/16 and 265/75/16 tires will fit on the same rim, on both the 7" or 8" wide stockers.

There is a guy here selling really nice Dakota wheels at a good price, fyi.

 

It's strange how the larger 75-series tires are CHEAPER than the smaller 70-series, all else being equal.

Michelin LTX M/S (Gen2) = $191 and $208 respectively

BFG All Terrain T/A KO = $200 and $216 respectively