tires
Postmaster
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 3,742
Likes: 2
From: UT
tires
I run 235/75R15's (29 in) on my '87. I once put the 31/10.5R15 from my explorer onto my BII just to see. They drive ok, but they would rub pretty bad when the suspension flexed. The 235's barely rub the wheel wells at full flex, and rub the sway bar with the steering fully right or left. From other's who have asked this question, I think the usual concensus is 29's are the largest without modification, and occasionally someone will get away with 30's.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 13,873
Likes: 3
From: Atlanta GA
tires
MrShorty is right on the money. With P235/75r15s you will get 12 inches of clearance under your transfer case skid plate. The tire size is widely available and it provides enough clearance for decent off-roading as long as you do not air down below 20 psi.
New User
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 24
Likes: 0
From: Atlanta
tires
Yeap, I've got 31X10.50's also. Several "tire specialists" told me that 30X9.50's were the absolute biggest, but these are the real "biggest" you can mount without modifications. I think the tire dealers say that because of the rollover thing that Ford recommends, as far as tire size. It could be a legal liability for them if they do, or say, otherwise. And yes, mine do scrub a bit when turning left or right very hard. Just don't turn so hard. WE still have the best turning raius in the industry, LOL. They look soooooo' much better then the factory size, as well as, the biggest recommended size. I found a set of American Prospector A/T's (unless I'm mistaken, made by Michelin) for $350.00, mounted and balanced, out the door, in Kennesaw, GA (a suburb of Atlanta) at Tire Max, a national chain, last October. You just have to shop around and use some of your "Isreali" skills. 
Good luck addicted one.
Good luck addicted one.
Last edited by fourthace; Feb 21, 2003 at 07:01 PM.
tires
New User
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 24
Likes: 0
From: Atlanta
tires
No rear end gear change really needed. but after changing your tire size, I do recommend having your speedo checked and calibrated. It won't cost much, only about $65, and it'll be well worth it in the long run.
