Tires: Tires for 2002 Explorer XLT 2WD, continental contitrac, snow traction

Question
At almost 45K mi, we're nearing replacement time of the stock Michelin 235 70R 16 radials on our Ford Explorer.  

I'd like a little larger tire, just for aesthetics, using the stock wheel, without detriment to ride quality.  I'm considering Continental Contitrac SUV tires, and thinking of stepping up to a 255 70R 16 size, after being advised that overall diameter will increase only 1.1", and width by about 3/4".

The vehicle has a tow package, so relaxing the engine just a bit by a taller final ratio couldn't hurt.

Question:  Any detriment in connection with ride quality, engine/trans/speedometer performancethat we should consider?  What side effects might occur that we're not considering?  

Answer
Kurt,

The net effect of increasing the tire diameter is the overall drive ratio goes down, just like changing the rear axle to a higher ratio.  This will result in slower acceleration, but lower rpm at any given speed.  I think this is actually more stressful on an engine - even though the rpm's drop.

Plus, this will raise the center of gravity a bit, which is not a good thing for an SUV.

You will also be losing a bit of hydroplaning resistance and snow traction.

Hope this helps.