Damn Discount Tire…. KO3’s and Terra Grappler G3

Well Shit and Happy Friday-

Went to Discount Tire to get 275/65r20 Terra Grappler G3’s installed on my Tundra and decided to go with KO3’s after the rep told me they were cheaper than Grapplers and they have more aggressive sidewalls. Well, I go to pick up my truck and they installed 275/60r20’s KO3’s and not 65’s at $240 a pop. The bright side is they are $50 cheaper a tire than the Grapplers, but smaller. So that leads me to a few questions for the group:

1. Do I stay with the smaller KO3’s and roll with the 60’s? Is there a benefit over the 65’s?
2. How does the KO3 compare to the Grapplers G3 for Pacific NW driving?
3. The KO’s weight over 7lbs per tire more than the Grapplers, will that be an issue?
4. Should I go with the original plan and get the 275/65r20 G3’s on my truck at $390 a tire?

Here is a pic of the 275/60r20’s on my Tundra.



TR

 

1) The benefit is less rotating mass than a 275/65R20 of the same tire; smaller diameter means less of a negative impact to acceleration and braking of the vehicle
2) KO3 (assuming you have a set that actually balance well) and the G3 are both pretty good in the weather the PNW sees, I would probably rate the KO3 to be superior to the G3 overall though
3) Extra weight = less fuel economy, slower acceleration, longer braking, and more unsprung mass... 7lbs won't be grossly noticeable though
4) If you want the taller tire, have them swap it out; but if the difference is $240/tire for 275/60 KO3s and $390/tire for 275/65 G3s... I'm not certain I would switch to the taller tire

 

Thanks for the feedback my friend!

 

For what it's worth ToddeausMaxi. If what you originally wanted is the 275/65/r20 Terra Grappler G3 then get them or your going to have constant regrets from time to time. You already decided to make the jump. Don't nickle and dime yourself at the finish line. Speaking from experience of a long life. Unfortunately I've done this to myself many times and kick myself in the ass for getting cheap at the very end.

 

Unless you do a lot of heavy hauling/towing, you might like the ride of the 60s better because they are D rated. The 65s are E rated and will provide a stiffer/harsher ride, especially with 20" wheels.

 

I went with 285/60r20 KO3s on my 2025 Limited and have been very happy with the tire and size. So there is another option. They’re fantastic in all the weather the PNW has to offer.

 

This is the best advice as if you had your heart set on the other set up it will constantly bug you....however from the POV of a guy walking by at a Costco parking lot checking out your Tundra I like the setup in your picture

 

@Observer, I took your advice and got my 275/65r20 Terra Grappler G3's on my truck and am very happy. I would have kept the KO's (in the correct size) but Discount couldn't get them to balance. The G3's are quieter, lighter and have a good feel on the road.