Lift, tires and way forward ...
09-08-2011, 07:13 AM
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Lift, tires and way forward ...
Ok, I know I might get some hate for what I am about to write, but so it goes. I need you guys' advice on the best setup and way forward for my JK.
Current situation:
OME medium duty + standard OME shocks + Cooper STT 35x12.50-17 (on AEV Pintlers). I rub occasionally, and the performance on and off road is satisfactory.
However, these tires are a bit heavy and my 3.73 ratios "feel" them even in spite of the good torque provided by the Diesel (think around a HEMI in terms of torque). They have a great "wow" factor, and they do well in the trail, but for my usage is proving a bit overkill (this is not my DD, but I use it as a all-round vehicle). I actually got the STTs because I had a good deal on them, otherwise I would still be in the 33s vs. 35s limbo ...
What i would like to do:
- optimize wheel travel, now limited by bump stops to avoid ripping fenders and brake lines (flat fenders, xenon or similar are a no-no)
- optimize performance, noise and vibrations, and fuel consumption all around
- get rid of the GY SA I have on original rims that I kept aside for winter use (need the space and $$$)
- consider more adequate/economical tires for trailer usage (would be 4+2+spare)
So I was thinking perhaps in:
- get a more all-rounder tires like Duratracs, BG AT, etc.
- perhaps downsize from 35s to 33s
- explore consequences of changing to LT shocks
Notes:
- I am ready to face further changes to ensure correct alignment of suspension and driveline components
- I measured the STTs and at 25PSI the measure 33.5" in height, in your experience, if "35s" are like this, would a 33in tire end up like a 32in or they retain better the shape? In other words, do a 285/70-17 Duratrac becomes a "true" 33 when mounted, and a 315/70-17 a "true" 34.5, or they become like the STT a smaller tire?
Current situation:
OME medium duty + standard OME shocks + Cooper STT 35x12.50-17 (on AEV Pintlers). I rub occasionally, and the performance on and off road is satisfactory.
However, these tires are a bit heavy and my 3.73 ratios "feel" them even in spite of the good torque provided by the Diesel (think around a HEMI in terms of torque). They have a great "wow" factor, and they do well in the trail, but for my usage is proving a bit overkill (this is not my DD, but I use it as a all-round vehicle). I actually got the STTs because I had a good deal on them, otherwise I would still be in the 33s vs. 35s limbo ...
What i would like to do:
- optimize wheel travel, now limited by bump stops to avoid ripping fenders and brake lines (flat fenders, xenon or similar are a no-no)
- optimize performance, noise and vibrations, and fuel consumption all around
- get rid of the GY SA I have on original rims that I kept aside for winter use (need the space and $$$)
- consider more adequate/economical tires for trailer usage (would be 4+2+spare)
So I was thinking perhaps in:
- get a more all-rounder tires like Duratracs, BG AT, etc.
- perhaps downsize from 35s to 33s
- explore consequences of changing to LT shocks
Notes:
- I am ready to face further changes to ensure correct alignment of suspension and driveline components
- I measured the STTs and at 25PSI the measure 33.5" in height, in your experience, if "35s" are like this, would a 33in tire end up like a 32in or they retain better the shape? In other words, do a 285/70-17 Duratrac becomes a "true" 33 when mounted, and a 315/70-17 a "true" 34.5, or they become like the STT a smaller tire?
