Tires: tire size, truck spec vs. tire mfg. recommends, bf goodrich, pickup 4x4

Question
I have a 1997 chevy pickup 4x4 Z71. The spec. recommendation on the door panel says: 245/75 R16C. When searching the internet with Tire Mfg's, they recommend a 265/75 R16. What is the difference. I researched the internet with Michelin, Bridgestone and BF Goodrich.  Is the 245 Tire still made for this truck and can I use the 265 without a problem ?

Answer
Michael,

First I don't understand where you are getting that the tire manufacturers are recommending a different size.  Every place I look, they say to stick with the original tire size.

The difference?  The P265 is about 3/4" wider and 1/2" taller - and that has many different ramifications - which is why the tire manufacturers recommend using the original tire size.  

And that's what I would recommend.  Yes, they are still made - plus you can use a Load Range E at the same inflation pressure.