Tire Size 35×11.5r17 to Metric

Let’s take the case of the 35×11.5r17 tire size. What does it all mean, and can it be translated into metric measurements? If these are your questions, you’re in the right place.

Dimension Breakdown
Let’s break down what each part of the tire size 35×11.5r17 means.

  • 35‘: This refers to the overall diameter of the tire in inches. The tire’s diameter is the distance from one side of the tire to the other, measured through the center.
  • X‘: This symbol merely denotes “by” and is used to separate the tire’s diameter from its width.
  • 11.5‘: This refers to the tire’s width in inches, precisely the measurement of the tire’s tread (the part that makes contact with the road) at its widest point.
  • R‘: This denotes radial construction. Most modern tires are radial tires, which means the tire’s ply cords (the layers of fabric reinforcing the rubber) are arranged radially, or 90 degrees from the direction of travel.
  • 17‘: This signifies the diameter of the wheel (in inches) that the tire is designed to fit.

35×11.5r17 in inches

FeatureMetric
Tire Diameter35.0″
Tire Section Width11.5″
Rim Width Range17″ x 7.5-10″
Sidewall Height9.0″
Circumference109.9″
Revs/Mile577

Conversion Process
Now let’s walk through the process of converting these measurements from inches to millimeters.

  • Overall Diameter: To convert the overall diameter from inches to millimeters, we simply multiply the diameter by 25.4 (since 1 inch = 25.4mm). So, a 35-inch diameter equates to 889mm.
  • Tire Width: Similarly, to convert the tire width of 11.5 inches to millimeters, we multiply by 25.4, resulting in a width of 292.1mm.
  • Wheel Diameter: Converting the wheel diameter of 17 inches to millimeters gives us 431.8mm.

To find the Sidewall Height and Aspect Ratio, we use the following formulas:

  • Sidewall Height in inches = (Overall Diameter – Wheel Diameter) / 2
  • Aspect Ratio = (Sidewall Height / Tire Width) * 100%

Applying these formulas gives a Sidewall Height of 9 inches and an Aspect Ratio of approximately 78%.

Finding a Close Metric Equivalent
In order to locate a tire size that aligns well with the metric system, it’s crucial to find a tire retaining the same width, aspect ratio, and rim size compatibility.

The tire dimensions identified as 35×11.5r17 can be approximately converted to metric system notation, presenting as 292/78r17. However, it’s important to acknowledge that this specific size is seldom found in commercial stores.

A more common metric size, and the closest corresponding measurement, is 295/70r17. This dimension effectively reflects the characteristics of a 35×11.5r17 tire and is easily accessible for customers to purchase.

Practical Application
The 35×11.5r17 tire size is commonly used in off-road vehicles and trucks thanks to its large diameter and width that provide increased ground clearance and better traction on rough terrains. 

These tires have also found utility in recreational vehicles and trailers, contributing to better stability and load-carrying capacity.

How tall is a 35×11.5R17 tire?

The first number in the tire size (35) is the height of the tire from the bead to the top of the tread, also known as the diameter, in inches. So, a 35×11.5R17 tire is 35 inches tall, which is about 889 mm.

How wide is a 35×11.5R17 tire?

The second number in the tire size (11.5) is the width of the tire tread in inches. So, a 35×11.5R17 tire is 11.5 inches wide, which is about 292.1 mm.

What size rim fits 35×11.5R17?

The last number in the tire size (17) represents the diameter of the wheel (rim) that the tire fits onto in inches. So, a 35×11.5R17 tire is designed to fit onto a 17-inch diameter rim, which is about 431.8 mm.

Summary
Converting tire sizes from the imperial system to metric might seem daunting initially, but once you understand the essential components of a tire’s dimensions and the conversion process, it becomes a fairly straightforward task.

The 35×11.5r17 tire, popularly used in trucks and off-road vehicles, converts to a rough metric equivalent of a 290/80r17 tire. 

Grasping these conversions can help you make better-informed decisions when shopping for tires, especially when variety and availability differ between metric and imperial-sized tires. So next time you encounter a tire size like 35×11.5r17, you’ll know exactly what it means!

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