River19

I just picked up a clean 2009 GX and need to slap some winter tires on. I typically run studded snows on all our vehicles that head up to our cabin in VT. Since that is the primary mission for the GX I they are getting studs as well. That being said, there is a very limited selection of tires in the 265 65 17 stock size, however I am thinking about running 245 70 17s, basically the same height as stock and skinnier is actually better IMHO for the winter conditions we deal with.

Anyone run 245s on the stock 7.5" rims? Any issues?

Thanks

LoneHiker

Although 7.5" rims are a bit wide for 245's, I don't think it's out of spec and should mount up just fine. I know what you mean about going with a narrower tire, I size down my Subaru's snow tires and it's a big improvement. But in the case of the GX, I think a 265 is a good fit and I wouldn't want to downsize due to the GX's already "iffy" cornering ability.

It's possible you've required studs on less capable vehicles but I question the need for studs on a GX though, as this size of SUV is absolutely beastly in the snow and ice due to excellent weight distribution. Add to that a really good AWD/4x4 system and there's not much reason for it. You guys might get more ice than us though, so it's your call.

I live above 9,000 feet in the Colorado Rockies and haven't needed studs on any of my vehicles since I got rid of the BMW. For winter, all of my current vehicles use either the Blizzak studless snow tires or Goodyear Duratracs, which are one of only two all-season tires that are rated as true snow tires.

The Duratracs are available in 265/65r17 and they're even studdable if you want to go that route.

River19

Thanks for the reply and thoughts. Ice and crap are too common here in New England and the 225mile drive every Friday night up to the cabin brings us though some nasty ice several times per season. Then once we get to VT it is mostly dirt roads covered in packed glazed snow with a ditch on both sides. Everyone up here runs studs, on everything. We started studding tires with our Subarus and then most recently our 2015 Rav4......peace of mind.

Quality piece of advice from you on thinking twice about downsizing to 245s....which is why I asked the question to see if there is anything specific to the GX's driving habits that would make it a sketchy choice.

I love the Duratracs and used to tun them on my F250 before I sold it for my 2014 Ram 2500, which the previous owner had immediately installed Nitto Trail Grapplers which are "Meh"......never had good luck with Nittos.....got a semi used set of Terra Grapplers wasting away in my shed from the Ford.....they sucked in snow..

I'll look a little closer at what is available in 265. A good set off all seasons or possibly Duratracs will go in in the Spring.

Thanks