My tires have date code between 8-10 years old, the 4 I can see easily. The tread is almost brand new some tires still have the little rubber nubbing from the vent holes. I guess the school just put new tires on before they retired the bus 10 yrs ago.
I've had bad luck with old tires and trying to cross the desert, I tried a few years ago and if it wasn't for a good friend in Fresno, I would still be there.
I've looked at firestone tires, they offered two kinds, their in house brand Primewell; and their name brand firestone. The prices differed by 100%; one was twice the other.approx 85 vs 160 each.
The tires on there right now are 225-75R16 load range E.
can I go with bigger tires? for better gas mileage.
also they quoted rubber valves.
I think I need to keep the metal valve stems I have so i can get a air chuck on the inside ones. I've always had metal valve stems on all my other pickups and never had a problem.
what brands or types of tires are favored.
I'm looking for advice, thoughts and recommendation based on actual experience.