How much does different tread height matter?

[charwest]

We finally got around to fitting a matching fifth/spare wheel and our fifth tire (duratrack, purchased as a five wheel
Set) entered the rotation with almost 10k miles on it. The tread blocks are almost 1/8” taller on the “new” tire.

I’ve certainly read plenty of warnings about running tires of different sizes to avoid drivetrain damage. In fact a five tire rotation was partly to avoid just that if we need the spare when far from the beaten path. It just worked out that I couldn’t get a matching rim until recently.

does this small discrepancy matter? Is there a rule of thumb
For what is tolerable?

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[D Fresh]

Should be fine. The Ranger has open diffs, a slight difference shouldn't matter.

I rotate at 5k miles along with oil change. A smaller interval will lessen the discrepency.

 

[Gsd1976]

Put that spare on and drop the hammer on some one wheel peels to even it out.

Regardless you'll be fine.

 

[9zero1790]

i wouldnt worry about that small amount. where did you take the photo on your profile ? looks awesome!

 

[charwest]

i wouldnt worry about that small amount. where did you take the photo on your profile ? looks awesome!

that photo was taken in Titus canyon in Death Valley, definitely the best way to get from north to south if you’re passing by Death Valley or a worthy destination on its own. Not really off-roading through if that’s what you’re looking for.

sounds like the consensus is no predicted harm. We will start rotating more frequently and appreciate everyone’s advice.

 

[THLONE]

I had to buy two new tires because of cactus in the sidewall @ 15,000 miles. I put a few more lbs of air in the older tires to increase the diameter. Mis matched tires on dry pavement might cause a problem in 4 whl drive. I dont do that.

 

[Frenchy]

Yes it will matter to an extent but as long as the spare is more or less the same size you should be fine.

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