4th Generation 4Runner. Getting back into the fray

[Haggis]

I am with Martin on the 19 to 15mpg drop, seems like something is missing there.

When we swapped the factory 265/60/17s to the 255/70/17s that are on the wife's 4Runner now, she too complained off the drop in mpg registering on the vehicles display. MPG had went from 18.9 average mpg down to 16.5. After having her calculate it the old fashion way and comparing it to the mathematical results I had figured for it when we first got it she discovered there wasn't any drop of any significance after all and the slightly taller tires were throwing off the displays results. She also learned not to entirely trust that little dispaly too.

 

[dsrtdcab]

When we swapped the factory 265/60/17s to the 255/70/17s that are on the wife's 4Runner now, she too complained off the drop in mpg registering on the vehicles display. MPG had went from 18.9 average mpg down to 16.5. After having her calculate it the old fashion way and comparing it to the mathematical results I had figured for it when we first got it she discovered there wasn't any drop of any significance after all and the slightly taller tires were throwing off the displays results. She also learned not to entirely trust that little dispaly too.

Haggis-
How are you guys liking the 255/70 setup? I have Michelins M/S 2's on there now, I have zero complaints, but would like something more agressive the next time around.

Nick

 

[Haggis]

Haggis-
How are you guys liking the 255/70 setup? I have Michelins M/S 2's on there now, I have zero complaints, but would like something more agressive the next time around.

We're running a Cooper made tire called the Wild Spirit, its a moderate AT tread with fair void, nice tread stagger and lots of sipping. The combo of the 4Runner's drivetrain and these tires have made it a very good snow runner. The 255s are on the factory rims and tuck into the fenderwells very nicely, otherwise the Runner is totally stock. Though the 255s are 1/2" taller there is no real noticeable change to the driving experience, the speedo still reads accurately and we only lost a couple tenths on the mpg front. We went with these tires mainly because of cost as the OEM 265/60/17 size is not a widely produced tire. The tires I could get in the OEM size where either to expensive or had a tread pattern I didn't like. The Wild Spirits I got for a pretty good deal, I believe it was shy of $450 for the set mounted balanced. Now this 4Runner is just a daily driver but it does have to handle the local dirt roads when the frost goes out and these tires fling goo pretty good too. I wouldn't put them on a serious off road rig, but for a daily drive that might see some dirt from time to time, they're a pretty good choice.

 

[dsrtdcab]

Haggis,
That sounds like a really good deal for tires. I am in no danger of needing rubber, but the 4Runner was bought for light offroading, and mainly exploration/camping in New England. If it works out, there could be a road trip back to Moab, so a good mannered, slightly agressive AT is preferred. I ran BFG AT's on the FJ in Moab and had zero issues. I am not hooked on those, but they served the purpose well. Thanks for the insight on mileage and fit.

Nick

 

[VisualUniverse]

Did you correct your calculation for the bigger tires? Your MPG might not have dropped as much as you think.

Yes...the increase radius adjusted speedometer and odometer, so calculations had to change. I should probably clarify that the tires are not solely responsible for decrease mpg. The weight of rock sliders, larger suspension, and rear metal bumper with swingout also contributed.

 

[dsrtdcab]

Yes...the increase radius adjusted speedometer and odometer, so calculations had to change. I should probably clarify that the tires are not solely responsible for decrease mpg. The weight of rock sliders, larger suspension, and rear metal bumper with swingout also contributed.

Visual
What kind of suspension are you running?

Nick

 

[dsrtdcab]

Front Bumpers

What are the options for a front bumper that doesn't entail replacing the factory bumper? This truck will not be wheeled hard, it will eventually get a small lift courtesy of 5100's and FJ coils. Just something to provide a little more clearance for larger tires. I am not looking for a smitty built bull bar or anything like that, just something to mount lights on, and offer a little protection from "fender benders". I am guessing it would end up being a custom job, my initial search doesn't show much out there. Pic or ideas are welcome.

Nick