Hey guys! If you're the proud owner of a 2019 RAM 1500 Classic, you're probably thinking about getting the right tires. Choosing the right tires can feel like a big deal. You want to make sure you get the right size for safety, performance, and the overall look of your truck. Don't worry, we'll break it down so you can easily find the perfect fit.

Understanding the Importance of Correct Tire Size

Alright, let’s dive into why getting the tire size right is super important. The correct tire size isn't just about looks; it affects everything from your truck's performance to its safety. Using the wrong size can mess with your speedometer and odometer readings. Imagine thinking you're driving the speed limit, but you're actually going faster! Plus, your truck’s computer uses tire size to calculate things like fuel efficiency and transmission shift points. Getting it wrong can throw everything off, leading to poor performance and even potential damage.

Safety First! Incorrect tire sizes can seriously impact your truck’s handling. Think about it: tires that are too small might not give you enough grip, especially in bad weather. On the flip side, tires that are too big could rub against your truck's body, causing damage and potentially leading to a blowout. Nobody wants that! Also, your truck's braking system is designed to work with a specific tire size. Change that, and you might compromise your stopping power.

Performance Matters: Beyond safety, the right tire size plays a huge role in how your truck performs. Need more towing power? The correct tires will ensure your truck can handle heavy loads without straining. Want better fuel economy? The right size can help optimize your truck’s efficiency, saving you money at the pump. Looking for a smoother ride? The right tires can absorb bumps and vibrations, making your drive more comfortable. Plus, the right tire size can also affect your truck's acceleration and overall responsiveness.

Aesthetics Count: Okay, let's be real – looks matter too! The right tire size can totally transform the look of your 2019 RAM 1500 Classic. Whether you're going for a rugged, off-road vibe or a sleek, street-ready appearance, the right tires can make all the difference. Just make sure you're not sacrificing performance or safety for the sake of looks. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where your truck looks great and performs even better. Remember, the goal is to enhance your truck, not compromise its functionality. So, before you make any changes, do your homework and choose wisely!

OEM Tire Sizes for the 2019 RAM 1500 Classic

So, what were the original (OEM) tire sizes for the 2019 RAM 1500 Classic? Knowing this is crucial because these sizes were specifically chosen by RAM engineers to optimize your truck's performance and safety. Here's a breakdown to keep you on track.

• 2019 RAM 1500 Classic Tradesman: Typically came with 265/70R17 tires.
• 2019 RAM 1500 Classic Express: Often equipped with 265/70R17 tires as well.
• 2019 RAM 1500 Classic Big Horn/Lone Star: These trims sometimes featured 275/60R20 tires for a slightly different look and feel.

Why Stick with OEM Sizes? Sticking with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) sizes is often the easiest and safest bet. These tires are designed to work perfectly with your truck's suspension, brakes, and computer systems. You won't have to worry about speedometer inaccuracies or potential rubbing issues. Plus, your truck will maintain its original handling characteristics, which can be especially important if you frequently tow or haul heavy loads.

Decoding Tire Size Numbers: Let's quickly break down what those numbers actually mean. Take 265/70R17, for example:

• 265 represents the tire's width in millimeters.
• 70 is the aspect ratio, which is the height of the tire's sidewall as a percentage of its width.
• R stands for radial construction.
• 17 is the diameter of the wheel in inches.

Finding the Information: If you're not sure what size tires your truck originally came with, there are a few places you can check. Start by looking at the sticker on your driver's side doorjamb. It usually lists the OEM tire size. You can also find this information in your truck's owner's manual. If you're still unsure, a quick call to your local RAM dealership can clear things up. They'll be able to tell you the original tire size based on your truck's VIN.

Considering Alternative Tire Sizes

Okay, so you know the original tire sizes for your 2019 RAM 1500 Classic. But what if you're thinking about going with something different? Maybe you want a more aggressive look, better off-road performance, or just something that stands out from the crowd. That's cool, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind before you make the switch.

Why Consider Alternatives? There are plenty of reasons why you might want to explore alternative tire sizes. Maybe you're an avid off-roader and need tires with a more aggressive tread pattern and larger diameter for better ground clearance. Or perhaps you're looking to improve your truck's handling on the street with a wider tire that offers more grip. Some people simply want a different look, and changing tire sizes can be a relatively easy way to achieve that. Whatever your reason, it's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully.

Potential Issues: Before you rush out and buy a set of oversized tires, be aware of the potential issues. One of the biggest concerns is rubbing. Larger tires can rub against your truck's fenders, suspension components, or frame, especially when turning or going over bumps. This can damage your tires and your truck. Another issue is speedometer and odometer inaccuracies. Changing tire sizes affects the rolling circumference of your tires, which means your speedometer and odometer will no longer be accurate. This can lead to speeding tickets and incorrect mileage readings.

Making the Right Choice: If you're set on using alternative tire sizes, do your homework. Start by researching what sizes other 2019 RAM 1500 Classic owners have successfully used. Online forums and social media groups can be great resources for this. Next, talk to a tire professional. They can help you determine the maximum tire size that will fit your truck without causing problems. Be prepared to make modifications to your truck if necessary. This might include lifting or leveling your suspension, trimming your fenders, or installing wheel spacers.

How to Read a Tire Size

Understanding what those numbers and letters on your tires mean is super important. It's like learning a secret code that unlocks all sorts of information about your tires. So, let's break it down in plain English.

The Basics: Alright, let's start with the basics. A typical tire size looks something like this: 275/60R20. Each part of this code tells you something specific about the tire.

• 275: This is the width of the tire in millimeters. It tells you how wide the tire is from one sidewall to the other.
• 60: This is the aspect ratio. It's the height of the tire's sidewall expressed as a percentage of its width. In this case, the sidewall is 60% as tall as the tire is wide.
• R: This simply means the tire has a radial construction, which is the most common type of tire construction these days.
• 20: This is the diameter of the wheel in inches. It tells you what size wheel the tire is designed to fit.

Additional Markings: Besides the main size information, there are a few other markings you might see on your tires.

• Load Index: This is a number that indicates the maximum weight the tire can carry when properly inflated.
• Speed Rating: This is a letter that indicates the maximum speed the tire is designed to handle. For example, a speed rating of "H" means the tire is safe to drive at speeds up to 130 mph.
• DOT Code: This is a series of numbers and letters that identify the tire's manufacturer, plant, and date of manufacture. You can use this code to determine how old your tires are.

Why It Matters: Knowing how to read a tire size isn't just about impressing your friends. It's about making informed decisions when it comes to buying new tires for your 2019 RAM 1500 Classic. By understanding what the numbers and letters mean, you can choose tires that are the right size, load capacity, and speed rating for your truck and your driving needs. This can improve your truck's performance, safety, and overall driving experience.

Where to Find the Right Tires

Finding the right tires for your 2019 RAM 1500 Classic doesn't have to be a headache. There are plenty of places to look, both online and offline. Let's explore some of the best options.

Local Tire Shops: Your local tire shop is a great place to start. These shops typically have a wide selection of tires from various brands, and their staff can help you find the right size and type for your truck. Plus, they can often install the tires for you, which can save you time and hassle. One of the biggest advantages of buying from a local tire shop is the personal service. You can talk to a knowledgeable salesperson who can answer your questions and make recommendations based on your specific needs and driving conditions.

Online Retailers: Online retailers like Tire Rack and Discount Tire offer a huge selection of tires at competitive prices. You can easily search for tires by size, brand, or vehicle type, and most online retailers offer free shipping. One of the biggest advantages of buying tires online is the convenience. You can shop from the comfort of your own home, and the tires will be delivered right to your doorstep. However, you'll need to arrange for installation yourself, which could involve taking the tires to a local shop or doing it yourself if you're experienced.

Dealerships: Your local RAM dealership is another option for buying tires. Dealerships typically carry a selection of OEM tires, which are designed specifically for your truck. While dealership prices may be higher than those at tire shops or online retailers, you can be confident that you're getting a high-quality product that's perfectly matched to your truck. One of the biggest advantages of buying tires from a dealership is the expertise of their service technicians. They can properly install and balance your new tires, and they can also perform other maintenance tasks, such as checking your alignment.

Price Comparison: Once you've found a few tires that you like, take the time to compare prices from different retailers. Don't just look at the price of the tires themselves; also factor in the cost of installation, balancing, and any other fees. Some retailers may offer free installation or other discounts, so be sure to ask about any available deals. Also, keep an eye out for rebates from tire manufacturers. These rebates can save you a significant amount of money on your new tires.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right tire size for your 2019 RAM 1500 Classic is a big decision. You need to balance safety, performance, and looks. Stick with the OEM sizes if you want the safest and easiest option. But, if you're thinking about something different, do your homework and talk to a professional to make sure you're making the right choice. With a little research and planning, you'll find the perfect tires for your truck in no time!