Best tyre size: 285 or 315 for Patrol
Submitted: Friday, Apr 27, 2007 at 20:52
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JackAttack
Hi there,
I know, it's probably one of the questions that appear again and again, but even searichng the net for days, I can't find an answer to my questions.
I just bought a new Nissan Patrol 3,0TDi. Beneath other smaller modifications, I'll equip it with a Steinbauer P-Box and a ARB Winchbar.
I'd also like to upgrade the serial tyres to something more solid, a Mud Terrain Pattern. Hell, it seems to be a very emotional matter, but after all, most guys go for the BFG MT or the Cooper STT. Probably they're both equally good, or almost. I guess that that doesn't make much of a difference...
But when it comes to the size of the tyres, there is just no common opinion, what size is the best for the bush. Some say the bigger the better - others told me nonono, you have to keep it small if you like to go off-road.
Honestly, I'm really confused. Sure I like the look of a fat tyre but when it only brings disadvantages I'd rather go for a smaller one!
I'll drive mostly on bitumen, some gravel road... but there are muddy times ahead, and I like to be prepared for that...
Anyone any suggestions?
Reply By: Robin - Saturday, Apr 28, 2007 at 09:28
Saturday, Apr 28, 2007 at 09:28
Hi Jack
Neither tyre is best for Gu , espically the 3lt which are a bit light on for power.
235/85/16 would improve your all round performance , but note the need for muddies and I can certainly reccomend the Bighorn MT 762 , in a size of 255/85/16.
You need to get power/weight ratio right so tyres can cut in , many 315's end up just bouncing.
Slightly taller than 285 and narrower , with less total weight and axle stress, as they can ride on offset 7 inch trak 11 rims.
My current set $240 each 5-6 weeks ago Bob jane
Just haven't had time lately to write full report on lateset , but deep
well cut lugs are siped sort of like MTR's and unlike BFG.
Robin Miller
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Reply By: Member - DOZER- Saturday, Apr 28, 2007 at 18:57
Saturday, Apr 28, 2007 at 18:57
Gday
I run 315's they are strictly speaking illegal...because they are outside regs for tyre size...they are great on road and better off, the biggest downfall with them is the braking of the car suffers because of the bigger diameter...most dont mention this, but it is quite noticeable....they are dearer and
puncture easier with larger sidewalls...but...the bigger the diameter, the longer the flat spot on mother earth, so traction is better....i remember once along time ago...having reversed up my driveway many times with 35's on the back(40 degree slope) i put some 31x10r's on and was surprised to have to engage 4wd to make it...so there is a practical example....for hard wet surfaces...now if it was slippery mud, with a solid underbase, then 750x16 slinnies would dig and continue to have traction where my 315 would slip and slide on the surface...thats why the discussion is so fierce....
Work out what your needs are and buy based on them not size...285's are great legal compromise tyres between full on 4wding and road rules....
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Follow Up By: Crackles - Saturday, Apr 28, 2007 at 19:27
Saturday, Apr 28, 2007 at 19:27
Agree Dozer the 285 is an excellent compromize for all round use. Anything smaller (particually in mud) & the diff just bottoms out, any taller & they scrape the gaurds, loose too much power, make braking noticably longer & play hell with the fuel consumption. Normally one can go up a couple of tyre sizes from standard without issues but above that one may need new diff ratio's, flare the gaurds or fit a body lift etc.
Cheers Craig..........
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