I have the stock 20 inch chrome wheels. Looks like the tires for these are really expensive. Should I downsize to 17 or 18 inch wheels? Will this give me a better ride and increase mpg?

 

Nice if we could see what they look like......What you have, and what you plan to get.

 

It is a matter of personal preference and opinion. If I was going smaller for the money I think I would go to 17's. Very popular size tire and they on average are cheaper.(that is only one factor to consider though). Look at all the factors not just money you might be able to get some tires that are a little more expensive but last 2 or 3 times as many miles. Like everything else do some research and see what the best overall picture for you is.

 

I had 17's on my 2003 quad cab, and I couldn't keep them from spinning anytime I took off, I have the 5.9 engine and In my opinion the 17's were too small, I upgraded to the factory 20's and it is much better and it looks a hell of alot better too. the 17's left too much wheel gap. As far as your gas mileage, it depends on the size tires you put on, if your tire is smaller it will have to turn more then the tire you have on now, which, unless I'm wrong, would create worse gas mileage... good luck whatever you do. And definitely shop around for tires and wheels, you can find alot of wheels on ebay.

 

4x4 or 4x2?
I personally don't think ANY 4x4 should have a wheel any larger than 17" unless it's for show and you don't do any off-roading. Only exception, of course is the solid front axle guys who plan on going to 37" or larger tires. 20" wheels just don't allow for enough meat to give you proper flex or floatation off road unless you have the lift to get HUGE tires.
As far as 4x2's go, it's a matter of personal opinion, but there are some on pavement advantages to 20" wheels.

 

4x4 I do some hunting and occasional off-roading.

 

17's with a good, fairly aggressive all-terrain or mild mud tire would be ideal. 33x12.5x17 would be the max if you are still at stock height.
Dick Cepek Fun Country II's are a good choice as they are a hybrid between a A/T & M/T tread. Has the highway characteristics of an AT with the bite off-road of a M/T. I have them and love them. Wear on pavement like iron and goes anywhere all but maybe boggersor baja claws go off-road.
Here's a pic:





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