Implications of bigger tire size
#1
Implications of bigger tire size
My son's 1994 Ranger 4X4 has P215/75 R15 tires on it currently. I'd like to be able to confidently put tires a size or two bigger on it. However, I'm a little nervous about doing so. Based on my perception of the sturdiness of the spindle/brake rotor/4X4 assembly under the front end, I'm not sure it would be the best move to put on bigger tires. I've replaced the front-end bearings a couple times, and frankly, I'm just not impressed with the robustness of this set-up. Can anyone calm my fears about the repercussions of running a larger tire?
#3
#4
The two main negative aspects of the larger diameter tires is that the "higher" effective gearing will make the engine feel less powerful, and two, the larger diameter tires increase the tire's leverage on the brakes, making the brakes weaker.
You can change the gearing to fix number one (expensive), but number two would be a lot harder to compensate for.
You can change the gearing to fix number one (expensive), but number two would be a lot harder to compensate for.
#6
The engine is the 4.0 and if I remember correctly the ratio is the 3.73. I am not looking to go to Super Swampers or anything. I just want to go up a size or two to improve the appearance. The truck is a 4x4, but it really doesn't look like it to me with those 215s on there. The present tires are about done, so it's about time to put some on there anyway. Might as well make the change. I appreciate all the comments!!
#7
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#10
The 31s will take a lot more power to roll down the road so power and mpgs WILL suffer.
Try going to 235-75-15s........A middle ground.
#11
#13
Join Date: Jan 2000
Location: Metro Detroit (Redford)
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You guys all going for bigger tires and here I went smaller on my 2001 Ranger. Ditche the crappy style wheels it came with and went half inch narrower steelies off a Marquis. Had 225/70/15 tires, now I have 205/75/15s and the truck feels much better. Those 225s were too big. Look how nice the steelies are:
Old wheels and tires on left:
Old wheels and tires on left:
#14
Join Date: Jan 2000
Location: Metro Detroit (Redford)
Posts: 5,860
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You guys all going for bigger tires and here I went smaller on my 2001 Ranger. Ditched the crappy style wheels it came with and went half inch narrower steelies off a Marquis. Had 225/70/15 tires, now I have 205/75/15s and the truck feels much better. Those 225s were too big. Look how nice the steelies are:
Old wheels and tires on left:
Old wheels and tires on left:
#15
255/70-R15 vs 235/75-R15 Tire Comparison - Tire Size Calculator
This site will give you EXACT differences in diameter and MPH, and customizable.
This site will give you EXACT differences in diameter and MPH, and customizable.