Jeep Wrangler: Experiences with Skinny MT or High-Traction AT?

[computeruser]

Does anyone have any direct experience running 215-85-16 tires on a Jeep Wrangler (TJ) or something substantially similar? I'm thinking about going skinny on my next set of tires, but being new to the world of skinny tires am somewhat hesitant to invest in new tires and rims just to try something different when my existing setup has been OK.

I've been running 31-10.50-15 BFG MTs for the past couple years and prior to that I ran the BFG ATs. The ATs were horrible at riding up on top of snow, mud, etc., and my frustration with this lead me to the MTs. I've been generally pleased with the MTs, except for the gas mileage. I do a lot of towing, often at or above rated capacity and off-pavement, so the added traction of the wide MT over the wide AT has been much appreciated.

The vehicle is a daily driver for all four seasons in Michigan, and in spite of this I've been happier overall with the MTs than the ATs and can't really see myself going back to a full AT tire. I'm thinking that a narrow MT or commercial high-traction AT (BFG Commercial T/A Traction, Dunlop R/T) might be a better fit for my needs than a flotation MT or AT.

Any thoughts about or experiences with this kind of setup on a Wrangler or Wrangler-like vehicle?

 

[Scott Brady]

235/85 R16 would be a better choice.

I love the 33x10.5's R15's I run on my Wrangler. A perfect Wrangler size IMHO (for trail, long distance and highway use)

 

[computeruser]

235/85 R16 would be a better choice.

I love the 33x10.5's R15's I run on my Wrangler. A perfect Wrangler size IMHO (for trail, long distance and highway use)

That's kinda what I figured, and I do agree.

I know I should do a lift, but it's the whole thing about one change requiring another - lift requires SYE; SYE requires adj. control arms; might as well do a 1" body lift, motor mount lift and a high-clearance skidplate while I'm at it; and a re-gear will be required (31" is about all 3.73 gears want to handle with a trailer being towed...). And, of course, with all these changes comes a progressive reduction in OEM parts and increased reliance on the aftermarket.

I really wish Jeep had gotten it right and designed the TJs to accept at least a 32" tire without requiring a lift. I think they really dropped the ball on that one.

 

[durango_60]

I really wish Jeep had gotten it right and designed the TJs to accept at least a 32" tire without requiring a lift. I think they really dropped the ball on that one.

Looks like they agree with you, check out a JK...

 

[Scott Brady]

Install an OME system or the Tera Flex 2" kit. I have installed and driven both and they are great. No other modifications required and will allow a 235/85 R16 no problem. With lower bumpstops a 33x10.5 R15 will fit too.

 

[ujoint]

One cool option for TJ's (maybe not the cheapest) is the AEV highline fender kit. I'm pretty sure it allows 37's with a 2" lift. So 35's with no lift?