Better off with stock sized tires?

[Javadog123]

Sticking with stock body lift/really no lift, aren't the stock 235's better for your tranny and suspension? I had stock size 235's on my Trooper (All Terrains) and it seemed to get every where I needed to go. I know tranny is the weak link on the 3rd gen and I want to preserve mine as long as possible. Also, doesn't larger tires lower the gearing? I already have the limited slip 3.73 and do not want to gear it lower.

So am I correct on the gearing reduction and the greater stress on the trans or do I have it backward?

Thanks

 

[gamecocks]

bigger tires will mess with alot... suspension, trans, etc
sounds like your better off staying w a smaller tire, you can fit 265s w no lift and wont have too much negative affect. as soon as I went to 285s power steering started acting up and I def. needed to regear

 

[rickybobby]

i run 32's on my 2nd gen, and the power steering doesnt like it, but i get way better economy on the highway with a minimal loss around town

 

[stuartr]

I went up to 255/70 r16 and have no neg. effects that I can tell. I too get better fuel mileage wtih them. Going to a taller tire will raise your gear ratio, not lower it.
STU

 

[IZwack]

So am I correct on the gearing reduction and the greater stress on the trans or do I have it backward?

Thanks

Yes, upsizing tires (without compensating for it by regearing the differentials) does increase the stress on the drivetrain (axles, CVs, transmission etc..).

 

[-Strike-]

Only thing I've noticed with the tire size increase is more fuel, but that was to be expected. It hurts a little bit when I'm paying equiv. $5.01 USD/Gal. - You gotta pay to play.