New To Me First Gen! At Tire Size Reccomendations For Dd With 2" Bl?

Tom Larsen

Test Drive
Hey guys, just wanted to say hello! I just made the account so i can learn all the xterra tips and tricks from the experienced Pros here. Not new to working on cars just owning an xterra. i have a silver 02 se or xe (not sure which) 3.3l 5-speed 4wd with 178k that i got for a steal and have been fixing up. so far i have repainted all the faded plastics on the thing, restored the headlights, installed 6000k HID's on headlights and fog lights, replaced the starter, plugs, wires, timing belt and idlers, water pump and thermostat, upper I/m gaskets, VCG's, replaced blower motor resistor, plugs, wires, heater hoses, replaced front pads rotors and calipers, replaced shocks, replaced motor and trans mounts, cut off rotted muffler, replaced LF axle, replaced inner and outer wheel bearings and races and finally just installed a 2" body lift. more to come later along with some pics but for now i need some tire sizing help.

Before you guys say search the archives i already have and it seems like the best size options with my current set up would be 265/75/16 or 285/75/16. I'd like to go with the bigger option but wanted some first hand recommendations as far as driveability, rubbing and road noise from anyone with some insight first. Also the 285/75/16 tires i am looking into are LT's will this make a difference?

Also the tires i'm looking into in either size are the Sumitomo Encounter AT tires. If anyone has used them personally how did you like them?
 

reaver

Lockers Installed
Supporting Member
Location
Caldwell, ID
I'd say it likely depends on gearing. If you're luck, your axle code on the sticker in the driver's door will say 49 somewhere, which means you'd have 4.90 gears (common on the manuals, I believe). If you have 4.90s,id say go with the 285s.
 

Tom Larsen

Test Drive
I'd say it likely depends on gearing. If you're luck, your axle code on the sticker in the driver's door will say 49 somewhere, which means you'd have 4.90 gears (common on the manuals, I believe). If you have 4.90s,id say go with the 285s.
i just took a peek and i do have the HG49 axle so i guess i have the 4.90s. that any better for off-roading or just durability?
 

robcarync

Sliders
Location
Raleigh, NC
4.6s with 33" tires will sap the torque from your engine and feel a lot slower.

4.9s can deal with the added diameter of tire a little easier.

From my experience and research, the biggest factor is tread pattern for driving noise, then size and weight for speed/power feel. I don't have first hand experience with that tire, though.

Larger diameter tire will sap the torque from your engine and feel slow...but 4.9 gearing helps that. If you get a 33" tire with a lower overall weight, it will be less of an impact. Go with a heavy 33", and it will have a bigger impact.

If you daily drive your X...I honestly think 265/75 R 16 is a great size, comfortable, and no noticeable hit to power. If you ONLY have the body lift and not a suspension lift, it won't look overly small. It does decent offroad unless you get into the extreme rock crawling.

But...I have a hard time doing the reasonable and responsible thing...which is why I have a body lift, 3 inch suspension lift, and 33" mud tires.

and...WELCOME to the XN!
 

Tom Larsen

Test Drive
Thanks for the reccomendations and hospitality guys!

So after hearing some of your opinions I'm still kinda strongly leaning towards the LT285/75/16's !

So do any of you think the fact that they are LT tires will make a major difference in fitment (substantial rubbing) compared to non LT 285s? I'd like to be able to leave the plastic mud flaps on for aesthetics even if I have to grind the inside out of them to thin them.20200424_203715.jpg 20200424_203812.jpg 20200424_203802.jpg 20200424_205650.jpg

If anyone's curious these are the tires I'm eyeing up! Great reviews and nice tread pattern. What do you guys think?
 

robcarync

Sliders
Location
Raleigh, NC
LT tires mostly known for a stiffer side wall...but not much of a dimensional change. I don't think it will influence fitment at all.

LT tires could potentially add weight and be a stiffer sidewall, which could make it feel more harsh on the road when you encounter pot holes or bumps...but I honestly think that is more "theoretical" and not so practical.

That tread pattern looks mild...so I think a 285 would be fine and drive well. Will probably fit with no issues...but you won't know until you try!

DO ITTTT!
 

Prime

Shut up Baby, I know it!
Admin
Location
Denver Adjacent
Welcome from Denver!

When I had my 1st Gen, I ran 32x11.50s with the body lift. It took some trimming in th front, but it worked great.

Much love for your masking and respray of the trim.

Also, I dont know if it's been mentioned, but at 170ish please be sure the timing belt was changed on time. 105k is the change interval.
 
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