IINM, Bill is compiling info others have provided. I agree, there are some “inconsistencies” due to the varied sources, and different brands. And manufacturing variances by Ford in the pinch weld behind the front wheel may mean some vans have more clearance than others.
1) I believe (though cannot confirm) that 225/75x16 WILL fit in spare . If it won’t, then NO larger size will. ***edit: they do fit on the ground OK, and add about 3/4” increase in ride height.. unfortunately, most (or all) are also more narrow than stock.***
2) I can confirm that original Cooper Discoverer AT3 245/70x16 will fit (on the ground)...BARELY. It is close though. So close, that Discount Tire would not extend their road hazard nor tread life warranty if I had gone through with purchase after a test fit. Of course, maybe my pinchweld is worse than some. Regardless, it wouldn’t take much bending to make adequate clearance. This is the size I will consider next time, especially if some other brands will offer Load E in this size. I did not test fit the spare.
3a) anything larger SHOULD NOT fit (eg, 255/70x16) without modification, unless that tire brand runs smaller than the Coopers, or your pinchwelds are less intrusive in front, or possibly if you have a lift. **edit: At least one 255/70 is smaller in diameter than the typical 245/75, but width also hurts clearance in the turns. That said, BFG KO2 255/70 MIGHT fit, but again, it must be awfully close. I would really like to see a picture of these cranked slightly to show clearance with the pinch-weld.***
3b) this means theoretically the 245/75x16 wont fit, as it “should” be as wide as the 245/70, but 1” taller(0.5” more ride height). It’s “possible” if your particular brand runs small , that 245/75x16 fits in the 4 on-the-ground locations. Some 245/75’s are actually more narrow than the Cooper 245/70’s, despite us thinking “245” means actual 245mm width. The tread shoulder design of the individual tire matters as well.
The best test is to “testfit” the front tires, crank the steering wheel side to side and observe how close the shoulder of the tread is to the back pinchweld of the front wheel well (which is recessed from the the outer bodywork by about 2” or so, and to the plastic bumper trim on the leading edge of the front wheel well. On mine, the point where the shoulder is closest is not with the steering wheel cranked all the way left or right, but only 1/2 a turn or so. That is when the shoulder is closest to the pinchweld. Of course, this is a static test, and suspension compliance and tires possibly swelling with high-speed rotation might affect results. Back wheels are never the issue (within reason).
Bill, my suggestion for your list is that for any size above 225/75x16, the results should include the brand & model of tire, to account for variability between brands of the same size.
And apologies to those who’ve been on these forum awhile, this is probably the 4th time I’ve been on this rant.
Lawyer speak/disclaimer: You alone are responsible for the results of grinding or bending the pinchweld on your van. None of these scenarios shall be considered a recommendation by the author. Common or possible side effects of pinchweld modification include body fatigue, loss of rigidity or strength, failure to properly absorb impact damage in an accident, loss of front fender in extreme situations, unpredictable airbag deployment, or death. (I’m trying to be funny and serious at the same time).
**Edited a couple times**
), and lengthy discussions out.
