top of page
Search

Tallest Tire on a Stock Silverado 1500 ZR2 (No Mods) — Fitment Guide


Truck: 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2

Goal: Fit the tallest tire possible without any modifications (no trimming, no spacers, no level kit) and document real‑world results.


TL;DR

  • It fits: An LT285/75R18 (~35") mounted on OEM 18" ZR2 wheels fits without trimming for normal driving.

  • Edge case rub: At full steering lock while reversing into a driveway, there is a faint rub only as the suspension compresses over the bump. Daily driving and forward lock tests were clean.

  • Why this works: ZR2 sits just under a 2" lift vs. standard 1500. The tested tire is slightly narrow with a street‑biased tread, which helps clearances.

  • Speedometer: Reads ~2–3 mph slow at highway speeds (GPS verified).

  • Weight change: +6 lb per corner vs. stock.

  • Noise/ride: Noticeably quieter and smoother than stock MTs.


Watch the Full Video


The Setup

  • Stock tire removed: Goodyear Territory MT 275/70R18 (measured ≈ 33.1").

  • Tire installed: Goodyear Wrangler Territory AT/S LT285/75R18 Load Range E (measured ≈ 34.8–35.0").

  • These are the exact tires used on the Silverado EV Trail Boss (mine were take‑offs).

  • Wheels: OEM ZR2 18".

  • Alignment: Performed at install (recommended).

Shop notes from the install video:

  • Tires are extremely quiet with a smooth, bump‑absorbing feel.

  • Launch feel: Engine sounds a touch louder off the line—expected from taller effective gearing and added rotational mass.

  • Rolling resistance: Likely lower with this highway‑leaning tread; real‑world MPG impact depends on city vs. highway mix.

ree

Fitment Testing — Exactly What Rubbed (and When)

  • Forward at full lock: No rub.

  • Reverse at full lock on flat: No rub.

  • Reverse at full lock over a driveway bump: Slight rub audible only as the suspension compressed.

  • Action taken: No trimming performed for this test. I’m continuing to monitor clearances.

If you run a more aggressive shoulder or a wider 35 than this AT/S, expect a higher chance of contact. This narrow, mild‑shoulder 285 helped us win clearance.

What Makes It Fit (ZR2 vs. Standard 1500)

  • The ZR2 ride height is just under 2" taller than a regular 1500, which buys needed clearance at the liner and control arms.

  • The chosen tire’s section width and shoulder shape are conservative for a 35, further improving fit.

Trying this on a non‑ZR2/stock‑height truck? You’ll likely need a 2" level/spacer and possibly minor trimming for the same 285/75R18.

Speedometer & GPS Check

At 65 mph indicated, GPS read about 67 mph. At 70 mph indicated, GPS floated 72–73 mph. Expect roughly +2–3 mph real speed at freeway pace.

Why it matters: Your odometer and trip computer will under‑report distance; correct for this when calculating MPG after upsizing.


ree

Stock vs. 35" Specs (Quick Table)

Item

Stock ZR2

Tested “Tallest No‑Mod” Setup

Size

275/70R18 (≈33.1")

LT285/75R18 (≈34.8–35.0")

Construction

P/C‑type

LT, Load Range E

Tread Type

MT

AT/S (street‑biased)

Tire Weight

~50 lb

~56 lb (+6 lb)

Rub?

No

Only at reverse, full lock, over a bump

Mods Needed

None

None (for test); monitor

Daily Drivability

  • Noise: Near‑silent compared to stock MTs.

  • Ride: More compliant, especially over sharp bumps.

  • Steering feel: Normal on‑center, no wandering detected.

  • Acceleration: Slightly softer from a stop (taller gearing effect).


Tire Pressure (Briefly)

This article is about fitment, but PSI matters for wear and handling:

  • Do not copy the Silverado EV Trail Boss placard PSI (~56 psi observed on one front screen). That vehicle is ~2,500–3,000 lb heavier.

  • Do not keep stock ZR2 numbers if you’ve moved to LT‑E construction.

  • Starting point (empty): 46–48 psi cold all‑around, then adjust using hot‑rise and tread checks.

  • Towing: rear ~58–62 psi (front ~48–50), staying within wheel/tire limits.

For a deep dive on PSI logic, see my companion article on load‑based inflation for LT‑E tires.


Who Should Consider This 35" Setup

  • You want a quiet, street‑friendly 35 that fits stock ZR2 without trimming.

  • You value looks + highway manners more than max off‑road traction.

  • You’re okay with minor edge‑case rub only at reverse/full‑lock/bump conditions.


Who Shouldn’t

  • You plan aggressive off‑road with big shoulder lugs or true 35x12.50 widths—expect trimming.

  • You’re on a non‑ZR2 stock‑height truck and want zero rubs with 35s—budget for a level + possible liner massage.


Fitment Checklist (Use This Before You Buy)

  •  ZR2 trim (or +2" height vs. standard 1500)

  •  OEM 18" ZR2 wheels

  •  LT285/75R18 with moderate shoulders (e.g., AT/S)

  •  Expect edge‑case rub in reverse/full‑lock over bumps

  •  Alignment at install

  •  Verify spare clearance and jack points

  •  Recalibrate speed if desired (tuner/ABS re‑learn)


FAQs

Will a more aggressive 285/75R18 rub?  Higher chance—chunkier shoulders behave like a wider tire. Expect either minor trimming or liner heat‑massage.

What about 35x12.50R18?  Wider section width increases interference risk on stock ZR2. Most trucks will need trimming.

Do I need a level kit?  Not on ZR2 for this specific tire. On non‑ZR2 trucks, a 2" level is a common prerequisite.

Is the spare an issue?  Check your spare well and hoist. Some 35s fit tight; others may not clear heat shields.


Final Take

On a stock 2024 ZR2, a narrow, street‑biased LT285/75R18 (~35") clears for day‑to‑day driving without modifications. The only contact I found was a faint rub at full lock while reversing over a bump—no trimming performed. If you want the cleanest no‑mod 35, this exact tire is a strong candidate.

bottom of page