Advantages Of Bigger Tires?

[acortez]

So is there any advantages of running a bigger tire, other than they look better. Is there any real advantage off-road with a bigger tire over stock? I am looking at prices of tires and really would like to justify going to 31" tire over a stock 235/75/R15. Discuss. Oh yeah I am pretty set on some General Grabber AT2 at the moment, and new to 4x4's in general.

1999 Ford Ranger 4x4 XLT Automatic

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Larger tires are the only way to get more area between your axles and the ground.

 

[Boggin]

^^^^
what he said...

 

[Sunk]

Also the increase height of larger tires makes it easier to drive over some obstacles.

 

[03Shadowbob]

If you are into mudding there are 2 ways to go with bigger tires. You can go tall and skinny if the mud isn't too deep so they can get to harder ground under the mud or if the mud is real deep or soupy go wider to stay on top of it better.

 

[Big Jim M]

Yeah all that, but:

If you aren't having high centering problems don't put taller tires on your ride.. The taller tires make the engine THINK it is traveling UPHILL all the time. They cause maor drag on the engine and the timing gets retarded causing worse fuel milage..
Now if you NEED the small bit of extra height then you have no option.. But you will like the vehicle better if the tire size is left alone..
Big JIm

 

[4LO 4.O]

The taller tires make the engine THINK it is traveling UPHILL all the time. They cause maor drag on the engine and the timing gets retarded causing worse fuel milage..

Unless you already have a steep gear like 4.10's, I actually got better gas milage after putting on larger tires.
And you always have the option of regearing.