P size vs. LT size.

1996GMCJimmy · 03-10-2005, 11:01 AM

So I am about to buy some 235/75/15 tires for my 96 2WD Jimmy and I encounter that there is a P235/75/15 and a LT235/75/15.

What is the difference? I never take my truck off-road, only highway and street driving.

can anyone advise? Thanks!!

blazee · 03-10-2005, 11:19 AM

P = Passenger car
LT= Light Truck

size is the same

I think LTs have thicker side walls

1996GMCJimmy · 03-10-2005, 12:00 PM

Thicker side walls? Oh, ok. i also thought LT meant "Light Truck". But I hope performance wise there isn't a difference.

84fiero123 · 03-13-2005, 02:36 PM

blazee is right lt has a thicker sidewall to keep your heaver truck more stable during turns. as far as performance look at the other letters on the tire. there should be ratings for speed, wear, traction.

herkyhawki · 03-14-2005, 08:28 AM

LT's will give a much rougher ride.

1996GMCJimmy · 03-14-2005, 09:20 AM

Thanks all for your input. I checked the tires out and there was really no big difference in the looks of it. I thought the LTs would look a lot more rugged, but the P sized where pretty much the same. Besides I dont put much weight on my Jimmy to have Lts on it.

84fiero123 · 03-14-2005, 05:54 PM

the LT rateing is for trucks, doesnt

have anything to do with what you put in it weight wise. it has to do with stability in cornering, passenger tires are not made for trucks, trucks by there nature are taller and more prone to rollover (they have a higher center of gravity than cars) that is one dam good reason to use the LT's. your driving a truck not a car buy the LT's they are more stable during lane changes, cornering and the like. i would no more put passenger tires on a truck than i would put slicks on it.

herkyhawki · 03-15-2005, 08:54 AM

The LT tires themselves are rated to carry more weight. The reason that LT's don't increase the weight-carrying capability of a Blazer fitted with P-series tires is that the suspension and drivetrain are the limiting factors in weight rating.
The correct size and rating for tires is shown on a sticker on the driver door post. A factory suspension is desingned and tuned to work with the flex inherent in a P series tire. Changing to LT's will give a rougher ride. When cornering, the LT tire will stay stiffer and straighter, but the suspension will have to move and twist even more to compensate, so you may in fact be more prone to rollover, not less. LT tires are also heavier. More unsprung weight will decrease performance, gas milage and handling.

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