This is my first Ranger 4x4 with the 3.0l all others have been 4.0's. I'm also considering a 285 75 16 with no lift, stock suspension.
My questions
Is it a good idea to run 285 75 16's with the 3.0l?
Will 285 75 16 fit?
Anyone have the Thunderer M/T?
Open to suggestions as well
1999 Ranger XLT Ext cab 4x4 stock everything

 

Welcome to the forum

285 75 16 tires are 32.8" in diameter and 11.2" wide
Look on your drivers door tag to see stock tire size so you have a starting point for current suspension

Have a read here: https://www.ranger-forums.com/wheels...re-size-20047/

And here: Ford Ranger / Bronco II Tire Fitment


33" diameter will not be practical without lift and trim

Drivers door tag will also have AXLE ratio, larger diameter tires lower the "actual ratio" so engine torque pattern vs. speed changes, lower ratios mean lower RPMs so good for highway MPG, although larger tires make that moot, i.e. higher stance and heavier tires/wheels.
Higher AXLE ratios mean higher RPMs so better torque in low speed performance.
Door tag codes here: Ford 7.5 & 8.8 Inch Axle Tag & Door Codes

3.0l Vulcan engine is a high RPM engine, it makes best torque at 3,750RPM(1999 3.0l Ranger)
4.0l was a low RPM engine, it made best torque at 2,500RPM

So you need to drive the 3.0l differently, it needs to be at higher RPM to get any power