Need some education

[LocoCoyote]

Why is it common to see huge tires on G wagons that have had the conversion to portal axles? Is there any reason to use a huge and heavy 315/75/R16 instead of a more sane 235/85/R16?

pros/cons?

Inquiring minds want to know.

 

[ILIAN]

The portals give a lot of lift so It wouldn't look right with smaller tires + the gearing of the portals is made to work with a certain tire size to maintain original gearing of the car so it's not geared too low and to make the electronics work like they were meant.

 

[McBride]

Well put Ilian.

I'd venture to say that most people would install portals to gain significant clearance. Larger tires help them gain yet a little more clearance , increase the tire contact patch (traction, braking and lateral acceleration resistance), and provide more sidewall for suspension/cushioning the weight of the vehicle.

Disadvantages are cost, weight, fuel mileage, tire selection and noise (depending on the tire).