I have a 2008 Aspen with 20" wheels. They stink in the snow. I had a 2005 Durango prior to this and it was awsome in the snow. Do you think switching to the smaller 18 Rims the other Aspens use or Durangoe 17 Rims would work? Would it mess uop my speedo or anything else? How much would it end up costing?

 

Yes, the 18's will be better in the snow provided they are mounted with good snow tires, of course. And the speedo will be off, too, unless you get tires with the same O.D. To figure that one out check out this site: Tire size calculator
As far as cost, do some research. Rims at a junkyard, tires at tire rack or whereever...

 

Check Craigslist. I think Ram wheels will also fit. You could possibly find a set of 17" steelies.

 

What size wheels do we have, is the bolt pattern 5-139?

 

Yes. 5-139.7. Late model Rams are the same. I see a set of new take-off 17" Ram steelies on my CL for $80 now. If I had the 20s, I would ****** them up in a heartbeat -- and mount a set of winter tires on them.

 

It has 265-60-20 right now. If I went to 265-60-18, would that be a big improvement in snow? Using the tire size calc, the 18 rims are a better match for the speedo? Also, craigs list in what area?

 

It depends on the tire. A 245/70/17 would be better (in general). Typically, the narrower the tire, the better in snow. An 18" tire can be just as bad in the snow vs. a 20". Check the winter ratings on Tirerack, and Consumer's Reports. Buy from there. For winter-only use, I'd get 17". The tires will be much cheaper. You'll have more sidewall, etc. Our spares are 17", so they will clear the brakes.

Craigslist in Kansas City. If you live in/near a major metro area, check Craigslist for Ram, Durango (04+), or Aspen wheels.

 

You are right about the 17 rims. If I put the same exact tire on from my 05 Durango which is 265-65-17 the speedo is almost perfect. Thanks. I am in Northern NJ and we get a lot of snow here.

 

carnivor,........I always run an All-Terain tire the year around I did it on my 80 Bronco, 86 Ram Charger, and 92 Ram Charger and never had any problems getting around in snow.

You say you get a lot of snow in Northern NJ. well join us people up here in Northern MN. and we will let you see what a lot of snow is, what snow we get in November will still be with us come March and April.

The major thing I see is people getting a 4-WD vehicle and not getting a limited slip rear end at least on the rear axle. I realize the manufacturers tout their "Traction Control" as beeing as good as a true limited slip rear end, but I wonder how much is just advertizing hype and how much is actual traction control? I guess I will find out in a few more months when my new to me 08 Aspen gets aquainted with our snow.

 

I always use all season tires and have no problem too. Untill now. I have had Durango's Jeeps, explorers etc... It is not the truck but the tire. The problem is the Aspen I have has a 20 inch low profile tires. Physics does not allow it to be a great snow tire. Your Bronco's and chargers never had a low profile tire like these. Low profile 20 inch tires werent even invented then.