The 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn sits firmly in the heavy-duty pickup world, where towing, hauling, and real working capability matter just as much as day-to-day road manners. Buyers looking at this truck usually need tire guidance that starts with the exact wheel and axle setup, because the single-rear-wheel and dual-rear-wheel versions do not share the same fitment. This 3500 Big Horn uses radial tires, with 275/70R18 and 285/60R20 on SRW configurations and 235/80R17 on DRW models. That makes the decision less about vintage-style construction and more about confirming the correct sub-model, rim diameter, load-capable tire choice, and intended use before replacing anything.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn
Three primary tire sizes apply to the 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn, and they vary by sub-model and wheel diameter. The first step is identifying whether the truck is 4x2 or 4x4, and whether it is a single-rear-wheel or dual-rear-wheel configuration, because that determines whether it uses a 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch rim. Once that is confirmed, the choice shifts to the right tire within that exact size and intended use.
In 275/70R18, the 275 is the nominal section width in millimeters, 70 is the aspect ratio, R identifies radial construction, and 18 is the rim diameter in inches. On the 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn, this is one of the single-rear-wheel fitments and suits buyers who need to stay with the correct 18-inch wheel setup. Available choices in this size include a BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2 with raised white letter sidewalls. It is the size to evaluate when the truck already wears 18-inch wheels and the goal is matching the proper SRW fitment.
In 285/60R20, the 285 gives the nominal width in millimeters, 60 is the aspect ratio, R denotes radial construction, and 20 identifies the wheel diameter in inches. This size applies to single-rear-wheel 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn configurations equipped with 20-inch wheels, so wheel diameter confirmation matters before any purchase. Its overall profile differs from the 18-inch fitment even though both belong to SRW versions of the truck. This is the size to follow when preserving the truck's existing 20-inch wheel setup rather than converting to another rim diameter.
In 235/80R17, the 235 is the nominal section width in millimeters, 80 is the aspect ratio, R marks it as a radial, and 17 is the rim diameter in inches. On the 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn, this size belongs to dual-rear-wheel models, making it distinct from the SRW tire choices. Available products include a BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2 with an RBL sidewall, giving buyers a known option in the correct 17-inch format. It is the size to use as the starting point when the truck is a DRW configuration and requires the proper dually fitment.
Tire fitment for the 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn depends on the exact sub-model, and the biggest split is between single-rear-wheel and dual-rear-wheel trucks. Checking the drivetrain and rear-wheel configuration first keeps the tire search focused on the right size and rim diameter.
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2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn 4x2
The 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn 4x2 uses single-rear-wheel fitments, with either 275/70R18 or 285/60R20 depending on the wheel setup. Tire selection starts with confirming whether the truck carries 18-inch or 20-inch wheels, then choosing the right radial tire within that size.
The 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn 4x2 (DRW) uses 235/80R17 radial tires. That makes this sub-model more straightforward than the SRW versions, but it is still important to stay with the correct 17-inch dually fitment and verify wheel condition before replacement.
The 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn 4x4 shares the same single-rear-wheel tire-size pattern as the 4x2 SRW truck, using either 275/70R18 or 285/60R20. The key step is confirming which wheel diameter is actually on the truck so the replacement tire matches the existing setup.
The 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn 4x4 (DRW) uses 235/80R17 radial tires. For this sub-model, tire shopping is mainly about staying with the proper dually size, checking wheel compatibility, and choosing a tire suited to the truck's working role.
The tire sizes listed on this page assume factory-standard vehicle configuration. The following modifications may affect tire fitment and are not reflected in this guide:
Suspension changes (lowering, lift kits, spring replacements)
Body alterations (fender modifications, custom bodywork)
If your vehicle has been modified from factory specifications, verify tire clearance before purchase.
Best 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn Tires for Sale
Available products for the 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn center on BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2 fitments, with choices tied to the truck's exact tire size. The current selection also shows sidewall variation, including raised white letter and RBL presentations, along with size-specific rim-width and load-capacity differences.
Tire questions for the 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn usually come down to exact size, wheel diameter, SRW versus DRW fitment, and choosing the right radial tire for the truck's intended use. The answers below focus on those practical details.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn?
The 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn uses three primary tire sizes: 275/70R18, 285/60R20, and 235/80R17. The 275/70R18 and 285/60R20 sizes apply to single-rear-wheel 4x2 and 4x4 models, while 235/80R17 applies to dual-rear-wheel versions.
The practical step is matching the tire to the truck's exact configuration before replacing anything. A 17-inch DRW fitment is not the same decision as an 18-inch or 20-inch SRW fitment, so check the wheel diameter on the truck and confirm whether it is a dually before selecting a tire.
What size rim does a 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn use?
A 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn can use 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch rims depending on the sub-model and tire size. The 235/80R17 size uses a 17-inch rim, the 275/70R18 size uses an 18-inch rim, and the 285/60R20 size uses a 20-inch rim.
Rim diameter should be confirmed before anything else because each tire size is built for a specific wheel diameter. It also helps to check the actual wheels on the truck rather than assuming they are original, since wheel changes over time can affect which replacement size is appropriate.
Why does the 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn have more than one tire size?
More than one tire size appears on the 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn because fitment changes with the truck's configuration. Single-rear-wheel models use either 275/70R18 or 285/60R20, while dual-rear-wheel models use 235/80R17.
That means the correct tire is tied to both the wheel package and the rear-wheel layout, not just the model name on the badge. Identifying the truck as SRW or DRW first, then checking whether it has 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch wheels, prevents ordering a tire built for a different setup.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a tire for a 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn?
Start with the exact tire size and wheel diameter used on the truck, because the 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn can take 235/80R17, 275/70R18, or 285/60R20 depending on configuration. Construction is straightforward here because all primary fitments are radial.
After size is confirmed, compare the tire's intended use, load capacity, rim-width compatibility, and sidewall presentation. A heavy-duty pickup used for work, towing, or regular road miles benefits from choosing a tire that matches the truck's real operating role rather than selecting by appearance alone.
What sidewall styles are available for 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn tires?
The current product mix for the 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn includes both RWL and RBL sidewall styles. The 275/70R18 BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2 uses raised white letters, while the 235/80R17 KO2 is shown with an RBL sidewall treatment.
Sidewall style will not change the truck's required size, but it can affect the finished look. Buyers who care about presentation should still begin with the correct fitment for the exact sub-model, then compare sidewall treatment within that size instead of treating appearance as the first decision.
What brands offer tires for the 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn?
BFGoodrich is represented in the available tire choices for the 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn, including All Terrain TA KO2 fitments in supported sizes. The available products shown here stay within radial construction and are tied to the truck's exact wheel and configuration requirements.
Brand matters only after the correct size has been pinned down. For this truck, it makes more sense to verify whether the vehicle is SRW or DRW and what rim diameter it uses, then compare the available tire's load specification, rim-width range, and sidewall style within that proper fitment.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn?
A period-appropriate look on a 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn still begins with the truck's correct modern radial size, not with an older construction style. That means 275/70R18 or 285/60R20 for SRW trucks, and 235/80R17 for DRW models, depending on the exact setup.
Appearance choices on a newer heavy-duty pickup usually come from the wheel package and sidewall treatment rather than from switching to a different construction. Keeping the correct rim diameter and overall fitment intact preserves the truck's stance and function while allowing some visual preference within the available tire options.
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn restoration?
Correct tire fitment matters on a 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn because this truck's stance, load handling, and overall presentation depend on matching the proper size to the actual sub-model. The SRW and DRW versions do not share the same tire size, and the wheel diameters differ as well.
A restoration-minded approach should confirm the truck's current wheel setup before replacing tires, especially if wheels have been changed over time. Keeping the right size relationship for the truck's configuration helps maintain the intended look and avoids mixing parts of the fitment story from different versions of the 3500.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, altered offsets, lift or leveling kits, and suspension changes can all influence how a 235/80R17, 275/70R18, or 285/60R20 tire sits and clears the truck.
Even when the tire size itself is correct for the model, a modified truck may need extra verification at the fenders, steering components, and suspension. Checking the actual wheel dimensions and visible clearance before replacing tires is especially important on a heavy-duty pickup that may see towing or hauling duty.
What should I inspect before driving a 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn on new tires?
Before road use, inspect the wheels for damage, confirm the tires are the correct size for the truck's configuration, and make sure inflation is set appropriately for the tire and intended use. It also helps to look over valve stems, lug hardware, and any uneven wear that might point to an alignment or suspension issue.
A heavy-duty truck places real demands on its tires, so the road check should go beyond tread alone. Pay attention to clearance at full steering lock, check for vibration once underway, and keep an eye on air retention during the first drives after installation.
How often should tires on a 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn be inspected?
Tires on a 2016 RAM Trucks 3500 Big Horn should be inspected regularly, not just when tread looks low. Pressure, tread wear, cuts, bulges, cracking, and uneven shoulder wear are all worth checking, especially on a truck that may carry weight or spend time towing.
Routine inspection is even more important if the truck sits for stretches between uses or works under heavier loads. Looking over the tires before longer drives and checking pressure consistently can catch problems early, protect the wheels, and help the truck deliver more predictable road behavior.
