Tire width question

[two-bit]

I've been looking again for drive tires for my dually.

I have found a tire i'm interested in. However i know that the width of tires is important when dealing with duallys.
So...anybody think i can get away with an 8 1/4" tread width?

I know the direct replacement for the 7.50X16's is a P235/85/R16. Which has roughly a 7 3/4" tread width.
However the tire i'm interested in is a 285/75/R16, @ 8 1/4".

My revolutions per mile would drop from 708, to 686. (Approx.)

So what do you think? Think i can use it without sidewall rubbing issues.
BTW, its a 10 ply, E load range.

Thanks all
Two-bit

[basketcase0302]

However the tire i'm interested in is a 285/75/R16, @ 8 1/4".

There were 265's on my truck when I got it, (they weren't rubbing anything either).

All of them were in poor shape though, I went down to 235's.

Maybe I need another cup of Joe but...
My experience with bigger tires tells me the bigger the tire/the less fuel economy.

Jeff

[FLATBEDFORD]

What size are you thinking? I know you meant to say LT235/85 R16, P235/85 R16. They'll be one inch closer to gether. How much space now? When it's loaded?
Just wondering, are still running the splits or do you have one piece wheels now?

[two-bit]

I got a set of one piece rims. Just need to get them blasted, primed, and painted.
Not sure about current spacing, would have to get the tape measure and check.

Actually if you are running in town. A larger dia. tire would be worse for your mileage.
If you are running the open road, a larger tire is better. Less tire/axle/drive shaft revolutions to travel down the road = less engine RPM.
I almost never drive in town, and are almost always on the open road hauling something.

Two-bit