Tyres and wheels for a BT-50

[miyata610]

We just did a 4WD course in our new BT-50 and on a simple log cross we were the only vehicle that couldn't clear a small log. A quick look at the other vehicles revealed that we had the smallest tyres and wheels... 235/75/15.

We have the poverty pack version of the 4x4 single cab chassis BT-50, the rest of the range has 16x7J rims, I think.

I was thinking of getting a set of 16" rims and putting some larger rubber on. I had in mind 16x8 and maybe 265/75/16, this should give me an increase in radius of about 35mm, which would be nice, but would the extra 35mm cause clearance problems for the front wheels? (the tray has already been lifted 50mm to fit an under tray drawer so clearance is fine at the rear.)

If I raise the suspension by 35mm, to compensate, then that would increase the clearance under the offending crossmember (under the transmission) by 70mm. Very nice. How should this be done?

Thoughts?

Phil

[Hellonasty]

Phil,

Mate I can't say anything on the BT-50 as I don't have one or know anyone who does. But as far as the tyres go what tyre are you looking at A/T or M/T ?

You will find 265/75R16 in a M/T is a quite expensive due to load rating and popularity. I would personally stick with 15" rims if your going for an MT as there are more sizes available and they cost a heap less. The price difference is still there with the A/T's but not as great so a 16 could be a goa just shop around a bit.

Cheers

[dragn88]

235/75R15 are 733mm in diameter. The SDX comes out with 245/70R16 (750mmdiameter) this is aprox the same width and diameter as 30x9.5R15 (750mm diameter) this will be a gain of 17mm in diameter, not much but better than nothing. ID be surprised if you couldn't fit 31x10.5R15 (775mm diameter) this would give you an increase of 42mm or 1.7inches in diameter.

The sizes ive quoted are from a BFG AT T/A catalogue

[joshy]

stick with the 15" rims. ive just been getting quotes for muddies, u save like $40 a tyre goin with 15 instead of 16. and 16" rims are alot more expensive then 15s

[miyata610]

I checked prices for rims, there isnt really much difference between 15" and 16". Ditto tyres for a given width. I'm looking at an AT style tyre, probably a Cooper ATR/LT 10-ply.

I was leaning towards a 265/70/16 but Cooper don't do that size. Weird.

I think I'll go ahead with 265/75/16... at least it gives me the extra 35mm of clearance (more if I dial up the torsion bars).

Thanks to everyone for the comments.

[dragn88]

miyata610 before you buy check the clearance between the front tyres and the guards i just picked up my Ranger XLT and there isn't more than an inch between the flared guard and the edge of the tread on my BFG AT's (245/70R16) when the wheels are turned close to full lock. Get some one to turn the wheel for you so you can check it in the worst posy. You might have better clearance if you dont have the flared guards.

[polecat]

I have 255x70x16 on my ranger and they do scrape on full lock !!!!!!!!!!!!!!