Wheel sizes

Hi Guys,

I have to agree with Gary, I cannot see a justification for aggressive Muddies on a vehicle that is not regularly driven in muddy conditions. There are however tyres that have a slightly more aggressive tread pattern than AT’s, but not as aggressive as MT’s. Toyo Open Country RT’s (Rugged Terain), or Coopers ST’s, Mickey Thompson also have a similar tyre. Personally, I am no longer a fan of either Coopers or Mickey Thompson, have had too many side wall splits.

As far as Off Set Wheels, as someone else has mentioned, go on line to the LCOOL site, Landcruiser Owners On Line, there is a section for 70 Series owners to ask questions. Not to denigrate anyone on this forum, it is just that LCOOL, is a dedicated Landcruiser forum.

Macca.

Macca.

Gary, an interesting comparison of MT/AT. MT vs AT

Just for clarification there are different grades of mud terrains and hybrid versions as well which are still referred to as mud tyres but are not overly aggressive and my preferred option of tyre type over an AT

Mack, Just adding a few thoughts that came up as I read this thread ......Im not assuming you don't already know your stuff but I personally like to hear others experiences, and learn from them...so maybe this will be helpful...Once you sus out what you need re tyre size and offset - the only thing I can add to the MT/AT debate is how worthwhile Muddies are for your vehicle.
Having said that, I have run Muddies on a slightly lifted and diff lock equipped GQ for 20 years - yes I do live in the bush and yes I use them, been all over the country plus, snigging logs, exploring, and moving around my place when wet. My determining factor is that its pointless having a capable 4WD and at some point being let down because I have no traction on the odd occasion. Most of the time I have no need nor is the vehicle challenged enough to require them.
I (and my friends) have tried most brands and levels of "perceived quality" of MTs and have been reasonably scientific in weighing up the pros and cons (eg Cost, how often we used em fully, wet weather grip, noise, useful life, puncture and damage resistance etc etc) - If you are paying $4-500 per tyre then the "worthwhile-ness" is lessened. If you are paying $200-$300 for a safe and reliable tyre then OK. If you have good suspension, ground clearance and traction assistance (LSD difflocks etc) even better.
There is little difference in the "air down" question between MTs and ATs as a lot depends on the sidewall and height of the tyre, ATs are less "boggable" in sand if you are not accustomed to sand driving. MTs will dig holes faster if you have a heavy foot but will go further in sand "IF" you know what your wheels are doing. (a debate we won't go into)
The other consideration is driving in the wet you really need to slow right down and be aware that MTs will lose traction easily on some bitumen surfaces- especially in the wet and can be lethal in an emergency.
I have never regretted having MTs on the vehicle - but my other 4wd has ATs and has easily conquered the Cape York, CREB track, Vic High Country, Fraser island and many beach drives.
I know you didnt ask for opinions as to wether to buy MTs - its certinly your choice. If you asked me - I'd say go for it but dont spend too much on them and drive carefully with them. After all my trials I am running Westlake MTs - a brand commonly used in the Pilbara by many mining companies in various formats. I pay under $250 each for them and have found them far better allround (even in the wet) than the overpriced popular $300-$500 well marketed brands. Hope this adds same balance to the discussion... cheers