Tyre Maker's Mistake, Solo Travel Security and Inept Dealer Story | ASPW Vlog @4xoverland

#4x4australia #offroadtires #ASPWvlog
00.00 - Welcome
44:44 - Solo travel security
06:45 - Inept dealer story
14:25 -Tyre maker mistake
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4xOverland is the world's first global 4WD adventure off-road motoring channel. Established in 1996, it is hosted by well-known 4x4 writer, explorer and filmmaker, Andrew St Pierre White. AKA: ASPW.

[@4xoverland]

LIVE SHOW on this subject, December 17th. If we want to get the truth about this, rolling resistance is everything. Everything we do on soft ground is to reduce rolling resistance. Two best ways of doing that are to maker the diameter larger, and reduce the pressure. Making the tyres wide DOES NOT reduce the rolling resistance! It increases the footprint size thereby reducing rolling resistance, but at the cost of the added width which increases rolling resistance. Zero gain! All you get is added understeer.

[@GR8Tmate]

Andrew, you are one of the few people (I was going to say that I’ve communicated with, when in fact you’ve communicated with us here) that understands this tyre situation. I agree with everything you said regarding tyres for the Troopy. That said, my last 78 & 79 I ran the 285/75’s & whilst they were too wide for my liking they were the next best thing. Have you thought about communicating with any of the tyre manufacturers directly. If anyone could do it, it would be you. That grey troopy, I’d like to drive it with the 285/75’s over what you have on it now, definitely an All Terrain tyre, not muddy. Traction aside, the tyre also forms part of your suspension, the larger profile & the correct pressure for any given terrain will improve the comfort. This is one area people often get wrong, wrong tyre and wrong tyre pressure. That said it’s such a sensitive discussion I prefer to avoid the topic & just look after myself. 😂 In recent decades, I’ve only had 1 flat tyre on a 4x4 and that happened when I ran over a broken bottle on a bitumen road , go figure 🤦‍♂️

[@benhowell5790]

Andrew, I got to the bottom of the same rabbit hole on tyres mate. Ended up with 33x 10.5 BFG ats, very few other brands made the 10.5 width x 33 and none had the same 3ply walls. Not quite as stable on the rougher blacktop as 12.5 inch but still an amazing tyre

[@gen1c8rs88]

Andrew the Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT has a 255/85r17 at 34.6×9.8 or really a 245/90r17 = a 34.4×9.8r17 tyre. Toyo Open Country AT3 and BFG HD Terrain T/A KT are in the size of 255/80r17. Toyo Open Country AT3 and BFG K02 are in the sizes of 34x10.50r17. Kenda has a 35x10.50r17. Only 17×7 rims are needed. Toyo Open Country AT3 is in the size of 35x11.50r17 at 34.5×11.4 on a 9 inch rim or 10.6, 10.8, or 11 inches wide on a 7, 7.5 or 8 inch wide rim. Are these choices worth pursuing or is availability the Australian market the only reason not to use them(if these sizes are not readily available).

[@trevorhulett9800]

I grew up on the beaches of Sodwana and Cape Vidal towing boats and ‘vaalies’ in soft sand with my dad, in an old landcruiser with steel belt radials at low pressure ……. I agree with you 100%.

[@carolyndavis4517]

as a bricklayer in west australia i have proved what you say many times , of course like you with many arguments. i used to have two wheelbarrows one with fat sand tyres and one with skinny pensioner type wheel barrow tyres. with a full load of cement the one with the skinny wheels was 50% easier to push through deep soft sand . it won a lot of auguments

[@Cicada4WD]

Lol

[@radaraacf]

I am in wa and have a perentie when I got new tyres I fitted the original size 7.5R16 and I have been mud sand rock and out performed all the 90s and later cars at idle while they are giving good bit of guff to get things done with fattys

[@TB-fw3xb]

lol only it does not matter with a car as you have a combustion engine driving the car and the little more resistance outweighs with better floating abilities

[@Outbackuber]

Agree with you Andrew... I had a FJ Cruiser where I used the 255,85,16 Toyo Open Country MT's ran 2 sets over 100 000km (combined) and now been running the same tires on my 76 for the past 30 000km . It is the perfect tire size. I love the Toyos even in the wet, but if they were to release a AT version I will jump on that.

[@keith6360]

As a LR defender owner for over a decade, I have kept tabs on all the makers that make 255/85r16 tire size as this have optimize the design of the truck without turning it into a rock crawler. As of this writing, the ones that make them are BFG, Toyo Open Country, Maxxis bighorn MT, Falken wildpeak MT, Yokohama geolandar MT and finally the Cooper ST maxx. The Cooper is the only AT tire. The Michelin XZL are also made in an equivalent 34 inches, still pizza cutters with a big aspect ratio.

[@Digital_Dairy]

A good list. Mostly due to Andrews talk of narrow tires and, at the time, lower price, I ended up with the geolanders for my 100 series about three years ago. Quite loud, however grip hasn't been my concern except for rotten snow and ice.

[@keith6360]

@@Digital_Dairy interesting. Reviews of the yokohama has been really good in terms of performance. Noise has not been really a concern to me as I have high tolerance for shit box cars 😁 but they become unbearable towards the 5th and 6th yr of their life. I’ve had 2 sets of the bfg km2 and lasted me around 50k kms / 6 yrs per set. I’m considering getting something different now for a change. But really depends what is available locally and cost due to these sizes not being so popular

[@cameronwood1994]

Okay it's a Series III that I have not a II or IIA, but I absolutely love driving mine on my adventures. I've done all over the UK and Europe, as well as Namibia to Kenya. It just brings a smile to my face every time I drive it, even if the driving position is atrocious, the ride horrid, the heater being pathetic, the water leaks when it rains, oh and that it only has three fuses for the entire car. Saying that, you do need to be of a certain type who's willing to endure the suffering, but no other vehicle has given me the highs that mine has. I've done similar trips in 79 Land Cruisers, Discovery 3, and I still come back to the Series III for my adventures. It's like my old dog; a complete mongrel and a misfit, but you love it all the same and you wouldn't change it for the world.

[@LifeouttheDirt]

the lack of proper size tires for true 4x4 enthusiasts is due to people voting with their dollars and 99% of the customer base is for instagram and garage queens. people who build vehicles to drive to expos and the most offroading they do is driving into the expo grounds. tires for views on short videos to please this short attention span generation of people and fakes.

[@oggyoggy1299]

Which one are you?

[@LifeouttheDirt]

@@oggyoggy1299 the one who also can't find proper all around tires for overlanding including road miles and considering fuel economy and capability over looks and tire width.

[@andrelam9898]

It’s not just the 4x4 community that’s being served up less than ideal tire sizes. It’s just about ok cars that are sold with overly large rims. I have a 2016 Countryman All 4 S. It came with 17” wheels. Why? They are heavier than 16” with hardly any additional performance. For my winter wheels and tires I went -1 on the rims. The car drives nicer on it’s winter rubber. The 17” all seasons are the only tires I’ve ever had a blow out on an unexpected and unavoidable pot hole. I’ve been driving since 1986 and that’s the first one. In the later part of a Buffalo NY winter you are going to get pot holes. Especially once the temps start to bounce just above and below freezing. If had sow, hard unexpected hit, but the 16” wheels with 60 aspect ratio tires could take the hit. Most never models now come with even larger wheels. Just hopeless in our climate. Replacement tire costs go up as well. But somehow consumers “want” these big rims. I don’t get it.

[@LifeouttheDirt]

@@andrelam9898 it's because most people are sold on the look of bigger wheels, whether it's for status , their ego or lack of knowledge when it comes to driving and maintaining a vehicle. Every plastic soccermom suv now has 18,19,20" rims. It's ridiculous. I daily a lx470 and ive got k02's on the stock 18's which i'd love to find 16's or 17's to have more tire. Im in the same boat as mr. White because im forced to run 285/65. Id like to have 16's and find proper AT's to have close to 33" diameter tires. My driving is 50% paved, 30% dirt/gravel, 20% offroad including hills and some rocks. I've got 5 k02's with almost 60k km's on them, really happy with the performance over the past 3-4 years. Soon time for a new set, hoping for a new wheel setup to downsize from 18's to have more tire and offroad performance, also better ride on road.

[@kg0173]

@@LifeouttheDirt I like 15 or 16 inch and wide tires, but understand the narrow tire advantages. 285/75R16 is as far I'm willing to go with the width. I'm looking for 255/85R16 for my second tire set for mud.

[@donnymcquary2983]

I used to have Toyo m55 255/85r16 on my 3/4 ton pickup, and currently have a set of the Cooper STMaxx in 255/85r16 on my old Ford pickup that I use to plow snow and haul material around on. I've loved the Coopers as an all around tire, and ended up putting a set on my newer truck. They have great on road handling, great on wet pavement, and snow handling.

[@caltravels9454]

Amazing video Andrew, sometimes you are hard to watch but this was very good, the physics of tyre sizing and gearing needs to be constantly reminded to people, bigger, fatter is not better, it is not a fashion accessory, it is about practicality and what works, loved it mate.

[@Fritz_P]

I am from South Africa 🇿🇦 & when I entered 4x4 overlanding in the early 2000s I bought a book from Andrew telling you all you need to know about overlanding. I rate ASPW as one of THE authorities on everything 4x4 related & he has been there, done that & got basically all the T-shirts. Great person also. Huge respect!

[@crazygooseventures]

I ran 33” tires on my Defender 110 previously and loved that size. With my Toyota 4Runner overland build, I decided to go with a 255/80/17 Falken Wildpeak AT3W’s and they have been fantastic all around. I’m not building a rock crawler or dedicated off-roader so this tire size works nicely as an overlander.

[@AndrewTinWA]

21:00 this is probably the best explanation I’ve heard regarding the wide tyre myth I keep explaining to people. Thank you Andrew.

[@outbackfernando]

Totally agree Andrew. I ended up getting the 255/85R16’s for the 80 Series. As you mentioned i wish Cooper ST Maxx’s were available when i was looking as i wanted an All Terrain tyre. Ended up with Yokohama G003 which is a muddie and is on test now… Thank you for your advice and i hope these manufacturers can hear you. 🤞

[@senditadv007]

We have just put 235/85R16 Maxxis AT881 RAZR tyres on our troopy ambulance that is 80% off-road. Muuuuch better than the rubbish that it came with, of which we had 7 flats in 12 months and two wear out. Operating in SA rural which is harsh on the boots.

[@ruboaris]

Andrew, there is such a tire. Cooper Discoverer S/T MAXX in 255/85R16. I'm on my 3rd set of those (255/80r17 in my case) and unless i go bigger, will continue to buy them. Works flawlessly in every terrain and in any weather. Including snow & ice. Not as good as a dedicated winter tire, but for what it is, it's not bad.

[@strofimios]

That's E rated and i think he want's a C rated for being softer and lighter.The only one that i know,for 33'',is the 33x9.5r15 C but i's a 15''.

[@ruboaris]

@@strofimios I'm pretty sure every 235/85R16 & 255/85R16 are E rated, but I may be wrong 😁

[@pabloeldiablo7703]

I'm using these Coopers 255/80R17 on my L200 (Triton) for few years. Great tires, very quiet and best AT's offroad, I've ever had.

[@wildwind8245]

Hi, from South Africa. I am a tyre salesman and this is a topic often discussed. I was actually looking at what is available in 255/86-16 this week. The only ones in SA ia the BFG KM3 Muds and the Cooper ST max. Wish someone would make a 3 ply AT tyre as you said. Fully agree with this video.

[@dre7767]

What about Cooper ATT i love them personally

[@seanrothfels1053]

Toyo M-55 255/85/16 The best tires I have run to date and it took me a long time to find them. I am 2WD in winter on the logging roads of Vancouver Island almost all of the time, they really are a substantial tire that performs very well. Bloody expensive but worth the hit. Only wish I had found these during my time in the UAE, I bet it would have made all the difference on our long trips through Liwa and surrounding areas.

[@lyonsy143]

Hi Andrew. Toyo tyres have come to your rescue. Their Toyo Open Country A/T III now comes in the landcruiser 225/95r16 size, it also has 3ply sidewall and 8ply tread. So you have your 33in narrow at tyre with 3ply sidewall with a reputable brand that is known for tough tyres in Australia.

[@steveformosa5191]

Had two sets of them terrible tyres

[@lyonsy143]

@@steveformosa5191 in that size?

[@georgecarousos6735]

You may want to look at the Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx in LT255/85R/16. I classify the tread as an aggressive all terrain but nowhere near a mud tire. It is an E load range tire with the 3 ply sidewall protection. I'm a pizza cutter kind of guy too and run 35/10.50R/15 Kanati Mud Hogs on one of my trucks. Love the size, hate the mud tire design but it was the only skinny 35" tall radial in a 15" rim I could find in the WORLD lol. I'm now ordering 37/11.50R/17 Nitto Trail Recons for my F350 Superduty. Nothing beats a narrow tire overall. The reality is the 285/75R/16 tire is just over 1" wider than a 255 but you have a HUGE selection and often at a much lower price because of the popularity. Always look at the tire spec sheet because tires can have up to a 1/2" width difference between different manufacturers for the same tire size.

[@davidcoy8348]

That ST Maxx came to mind as well. I plan to put that on my Land Cruiser if it's still available when I need it. Very happy with the 285/75/16 in that tire as well. It seems to be lasting forever.

[@cenccenc946]

I have been running the cooper SST pros, 286/75R/16s on my FJ cruiser for a few of years. Real mud tires, but they handle everything I have tried them on, often without 4x4 engaged. snow, to sand, to mud, all fine. yea, they are not a race car on the pavement, but you get use to it. I think they work well because I got them on the stock rims, which is the limit of the recommended width.

[@gibrigg]

I run the Cooper ST Maxx 255/85/16. Love them.

[@HoneyBadgerFarm]

I run the 255/75/17 on my Jeep Grand Cherokee...they are loud, especially under braking.

[@brucemcdonald8529]

Very informative, thanks!

[@jurgenkrebbekx4329]

Fantastic vlog, you are so right about the tires indeed,I experienced myself a 255/85 performed so much better than a 285/75 in terrain but those mud terrain are noisier and worse on fuel economy indeed,what a shame manufacturers don’t understand

[@kromey111]

Cooper St. maxx all terrain

[@donaldwatson6342]

​@@kromey111ST Maxx is a 10 ply tire, stiff sidewall to carry heavy loads, and not very good in the wet. The complete opposite of what overlanders need.

[@kromey111]

@@donaldwatson6342 so Andrew wants a all terrain 3 ply sidewall but 8 ply and not 10 ply ?

[@trevorluff8449]

Love your attitude and sensible knowledge mate. Welcome

[@deesalkelly3069]

love your story telling - especially about the dealer...you so remind me of my dad...thank you

[@VentureOffroadAustralia4x4]

100% correct on tyre size. The size we need isn't available and most 4wders don't realise what they need.

[@TedMusti]

Speaking of narrow tyres, just look at the russian Lada Niva, which leaves the factory with 175/80R16 tyres. They are using relatively narrow tyres compaired with other SUV's and I think they know why... Nivas are performing extremely well on muddy roads with these.

[@andreifotache3311]

They use those tyres because it is a lightweight car. If it were 2 tons empty and 3.5 tons loaded it would.need much bigger ones

[@TedMusti]

​​​@@andreifotache3311 Yes , but vehicles from the same weight category with Niva, like Suzuki Grand Vitara (225/65/17) or Dacia Duster (215/60/17) are using much wider tyres. Lada choose on purpose to use narrow tyres in order to act better in muddy terrain. I gave it only as an exemple of the principle stated also by Andrew.

[@andreifotache3311]

@@TedMusti lada niva is also waaay worse on asphalt any of the other two. And duster floats on snow and mud, even with it's wider tyres....Not to.mentio that both niva and early defenders on pizza.cutter wheels.had diagonal tyres and not radials

[@TedMusti]

@@andreifotache3311 Ok.

[@TedMusti]

@@andreifotache3311 Having a little more time these days for a longer answer, I would recommend you a video about the subject which I think that will make you, at least, to have some doubts about your previous convictions and confirm what Andrew (and I) said about the narrow tyres. Just keep in mind that none of us are talking about performance on tarmac, since it's not the subject of this channel. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bKike3SFrc1rgqc

[@glennbayley5863]

Thank you very interesting.

[@camro210]

Agreed, taller & skinnier size options are too limited. For my particular truck, usage, etc, I've settled on 255/75/17 Duratracs. I would have preferred closer to a 33", and 16" wheels obviously, but these are at least a true 32 inches, lighter weight than most, and perform fantastic. And the silver lining of the 17" wheels was that they allowed me to beef up the front brakes, which was a welcome improvement.

[@benjaminpoulson4894]

They make 255/80R17 and Mickey Thompson now makes a 255/85R17

[@TheArech]

I used 235/85/16 Duratracs on several huge trips and totally agree that it's really good tires for offroading where deep mud and/or clay isn't the main concern. If I'd choose tires now, I'd definitely consider them among the first option. Really good experience.

[@thedevilstears1]

You ask most people in the landrover community (the classic not the new discovery wanna be) and 9/10 people will say either 235/85r16 or 255/85r16. The people who like the 235 is mostly due to close to stock tire size and you can get them in all-terrain varients, while people who recommend the 255 do so based on the size (diameter increase) and for some a correction of the speedo to read more accurate/true. but all agress that the 85 profile in on a 16in rim is optimal. If only tire manufactures would catch on.

[@haemishmelville9271]

Hi Andrew - Haemish here from South Africa. I run Cooper ST Maxx 255/85 R16's on my 105 series. Admittedly they are slightly more aggressive than a standard all terrain tyre, but they work a treat. And, as you say, the size is the sweet spot...

[@kromey111]

Yep and that’s a 3 ply all terrain which does exist

[@gettinglostagain]

Hi Andrew. I loved your story about the immobiliser and the fuel cut-off solenoid. I had exactly the same issue on my old 300tdi 110 defender.

[@TWX1138]

On the old-school vs new-school debate, I tend to look at vehicle developments from the late nineties to early noughties as where I don't want to go past. I was raised on carbureted 4wds with comparatively small engines, so I appreciate the power advantages that multiport fuel injection provides, but the systems had not get gotten so incredibly complicated that the PCM and BCM are tied in together to where it's impossible to support the vehicle in the field.

[@mblake0420]

Thing is they can be simple with power, easily serviceable but the manufacturers and government can't line their pockets that way.

[@wirebrush]

This is exactly where I'm at. Fuel injection has advantages, but the electronic innovations that have come along since offer very little advantage (and in many cases, disadvantages) at the cost of complexity and reliability. Unfortunately older vehicles that are still in good shape are getting more rare by the minute.

[@TheArech]

I'd say it's a debate of those who have already had an experience of getting stuck in a wilderness vs. those who haven't :D

[@simonhjc]

Lol! Re the 2a! I bought a ww2 jeep. Exactly the same! In fact inwas on a fire trail and a guy asked me if I was ok. Insaid “yes why?” He said the look on your face. I thought you were suicidal” i said “have you ever driven one of these? Its like sitting in a steel bucket” we both laughed and insold the damn thing not long after

[@markhwl8345]

Excellent discussion Andrew, one of your best. From Cape Town

[@Ngunirovers7481]

We run a fleet of defenders and 79 game viewers, after terribly bad look with coopers in the 285 segment we will never use cooper again, even though they make a 255 in st maxx. We now only use bfg km3 355/85r16 on both vehicle types, no rubbing, no spacers needed, not worried about noise, just bloody brilliant! Only thing is they are a little pricey, but others aren’t far behind. Thanks for the Vlog.

[@MattBlack6]

My 2.8lt 4cyl na diesel Triton, with less power than a child's pedal cart, and running 225 tyres, performed admirably on sand. It was at the time, a $1500 car and with my snatch strap I rescued so many cars that were orders of magnitude more expensive. I just had lower tyre pressure.

[@InGratitudeIam]

True words of wisdom... I live in the USA, in the Southwest and go "overlanding" quite a bit. Friends of mine have huge tires, along with the attendant traction and steering rack issues with their 4Runners. It looks like they ran their rigs through a carwash that dispenses only testosterone. As for myself, I run the 255/80 R17 Falken Wildpeak A/T-3W on the stock 7" wide wheels. Not perfect, but far better than what they're running, and these 33" tires fit without having to go through all the mechanical and welding gymnastics that my friends did. Keeping the lift below 2.5" really helped. I get better gas mileage as well. Life is good. Thanks for the insights.

[@jimrice4699]

Exactly my set up except I'm running Nitto RG's. I'm happy with it. Mine is a "stealth" off-roading beast. '05 6 cylinder limited. Re-geared, added front and rear lockers. Etc. All the Offroad features are hidden other than the small lift and larger (but narrower) tires. Most folks have no idea how capable the vehicle is. I like being in stealth mode. I like the set up, but wouldn't do the Nitto's again - for my use case. By 50% wear the traction on pavement is sketchy to the point of being dangerous and snow/ice performance is very bad. When brand new they are good enough on pavement and useable with caution on snow. But the tires become questionable on wet pavement and snow/ice with a fairly limited amount of wear and tire age (I was about 50% worn ... I have tread depth measurements....and 3 years old when I replaced them for safety reasons. Wish I had similar sized Falken Wildpeaks AT3-W.

[@stevezodiac575]

I loved this video! One of the best on such an important and fundamental topic! I find it interesting that the GX 300 series is specified with 245 /75 R17 tyres! I like this - I'm seriously considering this size for the next tyres on om Prado - I understand the wheel width is acceptable (Toyo ATs) , but i will have to wait until the current Toyos wear out - which might take a while!

[@jfox71]

I totally agree. 255 85 16 are all mud terrain it seems. I am in the boat as you. Running 265 75 16 on my 4runner because 90% of the time I am either on tarmac or a dirt road.

[@patelliott8724]

Great video! I have a 2002 na Hilux. It hates hills (you know the one) but it gets to the top. I fitted 31-10.5/15 Falken Wildpeak AT3 tyres a couple of years ago. Awesome tyres! Great on road but once I step off road, the grip is amazing!

[@chuckc6515]

Andrew, I’m sure you already know this and/or maybe even had a hand in it…Falken is releasing the new AT4W all terrain tire in 255/85/16. Our prayers have been answered!!

[@finlaypeter5857]

Hi Chuck, where can I find more information on this tire and release date?

[@chuckc6515]

@@finlaypeter5857 They have it listed on the Falken website now…I believe they are planning for a late quarter 1 release if all goes according to plan.

[@insydegroup]

Amazing video. I'm looking forward to the LC 2.8 build.

[@Patches-vq8cd]

I personally think my 2006 land rover defender td5 is the ultimate. Its as simple as you can get apart from the engine. But the engine even with its electrics are easy to repair. But is modern enough to have fuel efficiency for long distances and ehough power to get up hills.

[@Ronhickmott]

Yes, the mechano style unbolt body panels to access drive train is unsurpassed, I'm envious as I have a disco, but it has the auto, and I've attached a defender t-case so it's a good compromise.

[@shantishanti1949]

Defender 110 troopie 2009 Puma engine- no issues- love and trust it. Been everywhere- Simpson Dessert, NT top end, Birdsville track, Innamincka track, Coongi Lakes, Canning Stock, Tanami , WA - obsessed Defender owner here never let me down. Yet even to blow a tyre!

[@Ronhickmott]

@@shantishanti1949 yeah a mate has one he uses on three rural post runs, along with a 3ltr patrol, they've both been very reliable, the patrol cracked the chassis twice, warranty refused, and the defender a def, something to do with them being a p38 he reckons, fixed under warranty. But tyres lasted two to three times longer, and running the same tyre.

[@michaelsharman7176]

Sir if travelling into space ( and back ) would you prefer to go in a Apollo 11 capsule with all the computing power of a child’s calculator or would you prefer to go on the ( now retired ) Space Shuttle which is vastly more complex but much more reliable. Modern cars are a lot more reliable than those of 30 years ago and I suspect off-road vehicles are also. The stuff you know breaks you’d best take spares for. Simply put, you cannot stop progress

[@kromey111]

You’ll have to another Vlog explaining your followers found the tyre that doesn’t exist. Cooper ST Maxx AT 3 Ply 255/85/16. Just in case other people don’t know about it

[@billw6182]

Yes Andrew you are so correct . As a Canadian overlander , and building both my 2 door and 4 door Jeeps as such , I agree with the whole tire size issue . I looked far and wide for a pizza cutter all terrain but alas to no avail . So on the 2 door I re-geared to 4.56 in the diffs. and went to 35's but @ 11.5 inches wide (most at that size are 12.5 inches wide)...I was happy to find these Nitto Trail Grapplers @ this width , and they are pretty quiet for a mud tire . The 4 door ruby I kept the stock 285/70/17 BFG KO2 , I had KO2's on the 2-door at one time and really like there general on - off road performance , and they are now on my classic 2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ . The entire 4X4 industry is duped by looks over performance (I actually like the look of a tall skinny tire on an off road vehicle , over fat tire look) ... I prefer form following function . I have been all over northern Canada in both Jeeps, this past year I went up to the Arctic and Tuktoyaktuk , Dempster highway, top of the world highway to Alaska , Northern BC in the 4 door , with home built sleeping platform inside solar batteries , solar panel and 12-volt fridge . Sliding drawer system under the sleeping platform , roof rack with storage boxes Jerry fuel and water cans, 12 volt shower , shower enclosure, awning with zip in awning room. The 4 door Ruby JL Wrangler performed flawlessly , and was quite comfortable to live out of for my 3 month trip . Those 33's were terrific both on and off road. Two summers ago I went to northern Quebec and did the Trans Taiga in the similarly outfitted 2-door JK on the Nitto 35's , very tough track when you reach the end you are 750 km from the nearest town ,it is an out and back so 1500 kilometres in total with a fuel stop 350 clicks in .When I came back west I went to James bay and camped on the salt water shores of James Bay (didn't see any polar bears). I carried 3 NATO Jerry cans , 60 litres , of spare fuel , and spares-tools , the 2-door , was flawless on that trip and all the other very remote trips I have done with it , to North of Lake Superior in Ontario . But I agree if they made a 285/80 or 85/17 I'd be all over it!! I am improving the 4-door for my trip this coming summer to the Maritime provinces , apparently there is an off road track that goes right across the middle of the island of Newfoundland , I have my sights set on doing that , as well as other interesting out of the way places in that region of Canada . Andrew you should come to Canada and do some off road overland adventures. Cheers Bill Jeep overland the remotest parts of Northern Canada .

[@urszemp4539]

Thx Andrew. The security tip about the Dobermann works. Better though, there is a real dog. I called my little pup Maggie - named after the fearless Maggie Thatcher.

[@donaldwatson6342]

Many here have posted about the Cooper ST Maxx and the Toyo M-55. While both are in the 255/85/16 size, they are best on vehicles with 9000 lbs ( 4082 kilograms) or heavier. I ran those on my 4500 lbs Isuzu Trooper and had very poor traction due to the sidewalls being so stiff they held the rim 3 inches above the road with zero air pressure.

[@warren6899]

From South Africa again, you are correct.....

[@fmh357]

I do get what you say about tall, skinny tires with tall sidewalls and how they lay down more like a track vehicle in soft terrain when aired down. My only issue is I consider a 265 to be a fairly meaty tire. I usually run a 265 75R 16 tire (31.7" tall) on our rigs in that it's a decent size all around, is available everywhere and offers clearance and decent handling on street or those back roads that once were for logging or mining,, or tracks people have worn into the terrain and usually rough. BFG makes a 255 85R 16 tire that's not as common but gives 33.1 inches of diameter. Always love your content and thanks. I didn't look too hard but came up with this "Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx All Terrain LT255/85R16 123/120Q E Light Truck Tire"

[@johnmailer109]

I have Cooper ST Maxx 255/85-16 on my Troopy

[@jesseleon1211]

I got myself an sd33 patrol in very poor conditions as can not afford any better. It had 31/10'5 15 and I had to deal with that till I coud get what I really wanted. Fortunately the deal included the stock 16 rims. Now, after a few months restoring it, I could get 235/85 16. I really can't explain how better in any way that tyre size is. That's thanks to you. Cheers from Canary Islands

[@steveformosa5191]

Andrew you have hit the nail on the head again

[@pelzyy]

@4xoverland I believe Toyo AT3 is available in 225/95R16 which is OEM size on the Troopcarrier. Could be worth investigating, will be following with interest

[@Land_Raver]

Its interesting learning about these small market/volume vehicles like the troop carrier and 79 series but most of the world never sees these cars. Its the main disconnect Ive found between the Australians I encounter and the North American market. A single state, Texas, for example has more people than all of Australia. So its like talking about Super Duty Ford trucks to Aussies and South Africans. They've never driven them, will never drive them, and it doesnt fir their market.

[@scandinavia6271]

Agree! It seems from this video that even the LC300 is too complicated for this niche market? (Not to mention the L663) That really doesn’t leave a lot of suitable vehicles for my Aussie friends.

[@got-to-wonder]

I've stayed with the Dunlop 225's/95r16 on my Troopy for all my out back trips. But drive carefully on wet bitumin

[@davidkeppler4892]

Howzit boet, we really enjoy your content and your many words of wisdom has helped me tremendously 👌

[@4xoverland]

Lekker, man.

[@lyonsy143]

Hi Andrew, i know you hate 17in rims, but it may be your saving here. There is some AT tyres in 255/85r17 this gives you a 34x10 tyre and still gives you a 8.5in sidewall same as the 255/85r16. Mickey Thompson is the only one in Australia that i see but much more popular over in the states.

[@zelenizub2036]

I plan to put these on my Nissan Titan xd here in USA...

[@jagoffroad]

Nicely worded bud

[@flatheadV8]

Looking forward to your review of the Grenadier. I had a run in one last week and found the bulge in the drivers footwell, which is necessary to accommodate the exhaust in the right hand drive version, resulted in a most uncomfortable driving position. Also at £70,000 or so in the UK much too expensive. Even though it is 10 years since I last drove a Troopy I still prefer the Toyota. Pity the new version is not available in the UK.

[@kromey111]

@4xoverland Mickey Thompson Baja boss AT 3 Ply 255/85/17 34.1" decent sidewall height same as 255/85/16

[@DocGTO]

You and I agree on the best all round tire size. 33s. 255/85R16 or 255/80R17. I'm currently running the later (labeled 33x10.5R17) in the new Kendra Klever RT with the three ply sidewalls and have been on two overland trips totaling 2400 miles and they have performed amazing in everything we have thrown at them (highway, rain, sand, and mud) and are much quieter then my previous Goodyear MTs. The tire makers are making less and less options in 16s and they have gone the way of 17s so decided to give them a try. The sweet spot are the newer hybrids (RTs). I know you like the Falkens so give the new Wildpeak RTs a try. Cheers from Florida. Doc Martin.

[@dcwn45]

Great video Andrew ! I have long been wishing for the tire manufactures to make a 265/ 85 or 33x10.5. Here in the US the most common overland vehicle are Tacomas and 4runners and the like. It would be SO much easier to fit a narrower tire to these as it's the width that interferes with the cab mount , pinch weld, etc. I wish we could get Troopys here but alas!

[@jamesjohnson5925]

How about the 255 85 ? Thats a 33?

[@dcwn45]

@@jamesjohnson5925 true, but limited choices, and I prefer the 265 width. Just wishing!

[@michaeldallimore8590]

Hi Andrew. Surely you would not go out into a remote area in any car without the right diagnostic tool for that particular vehicle. Why do you talk about needing an internet connection and a dealer? The correct diagnostic tool would not simply give you a fault code but will provide a clear english description of the fault. That will point you to the issue whether it be a sensor or some other issue. Of course you always carry a set of all the important sensors with you?

[@benbirch2393]

My 245/70r17 cooper at3 have taken my jeep wj everywhere in the european "wilderness" without issue. Those relatively tiny 31 inch tyres on a relatively lightweight 4x4 just work, and still allow the semi locking lsds to work very well indeed. No need for 35 inch monsters in my life thankfully

[@francoisrossouw1656]

Love you Aussies ASPW ,Ronny Dahl and John Cadogan says it as it is.

[@stevep8773]

I drove a Series IIA across the Kalahari in 1976. Every time I see one now, my kidneys start to ache :-)

[@toddhoffmaster6057]

I just recently used the Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT tire in the 17" (Jeep Jk Rubicon) that was a tall skinny tire. 255/85 17R. I love it. This tire is the best all around performance tire that I have used that is both great on/off road. Now that I have an older model Jeep TJU, I want that same kind of tire and I have the ability to use a 15" on this Jeep. It looks like that I will go to the 285/75 16R.

[@jonyjonsy]

22:42 my thoughts exactly!

[@labourlawact7826]

I worked in an old school diesel shop that had a "pump room", ie pump and injectors test bench. We did literally hundreds of bypassing the immobiliser jobs on diesels that would intermittently not start. Not many Landcruisers tbh, but Colt 2.8 and Isuzu were very prone to this failure. On the Colt and Isuzu the pump had to be removed to get to the solenoid in order to bypass it (There was a plastic cover over it with bolts that had to be drilled out...). I could basically remove and refit the pumps in my sleep after some time😂. Definitely no ecu, you just had to make sure you had the pump timing marks correct on refitting. 😊🙋🏼‍♂️👍🏻

[@hedydd2]

It isn’t an immobiliser. It is the engine stop solenoid. It may be controlled by an immobiliser. Funny thing is that just two weeks ago I had a non starting issue with no fuel smoke on my 1993 Same Titan tractor. That has an electronically controlled governor and three memories for its hand throttle, controlled by a three key pad on the B pillar. Mechanic had no idea and wanted to source a replacement ECU, change the battery and starter motor. Oh dear! Eventually came back, unable to source a used ECU, but suddenly got it working. He wouldn’t say, but I suspect it was just a bad earth, as I originally suggested to him.

[@Queensizemusic]

That scene you described with the Sparky who came to help at the Yoda dealership in S. Africa was riotously funny. I could see you in my mind and feel the palpable frustration. 😂

[@labourlawact7826]

Makes me think of the older Isuzu kb 250 Fleetside. It had a "check engine light", but pure mechanical pump and injectors (Before the common rail one came out)😂🙄

[@Ban00dle]

I had this tyre issue recently with my Patrol. I wanted to go up to a 33" A/T tyre without going wider than the factory width. Nothing available. I actually wound up going with a 32" instead as it was easier to get a width I was happy with.

[@tashika92]

I upgraded my L200 from the stock tyres 245 65 r17 to toyo A/T 3 265 70 r17 feels more stable on the road now still need to try the off road as I only had the on for a few days.

[@DMSVICAU]

There is a Video (somewhere on You-Tube) where they take 2 similar tyres, both the same width and diameter, however one has an 85% ratio the other with 70 or 75% (obviously, Different Rim Sizes) the video demonstrates the differences in how the different tyres elongate as pressure drops and the way both Tyres Flex and Mould around an Obstacle (if it was done Honestly) was Incredible.

[@kg0173]

I never liked the trend of low profile tires. Width yes, I liked high profile tires with the white letter on the side. And yes the wide too, for the looks.

[@stevep8773]

I relegated my South African Defender 110 300tdi to "weekend car" status as a result of repair issues when away from home. While very competent in the bush, the lack of local suppliers and minimal dealer knowledge of these older vehicles meant I had to take two ammo boxes of spares and also often provide the expertise. And that's on a vehicle with zero electronics. My new-to-me LC76 1HZ is similar in design, but I know that every dorp has a Toyota dealer with parts on hand and every bush mechanic knows how to fix any problem I might encounter I had BFG KM2s on a Discovery 2 and did not find them that noisy, TBH

[@adrianhallam1297]

Hi Andrew - you have become such a woosie - where is the guy who would spend the day digging out his grossly overloaded Range Rover 4x4 out of the mud on his way to Kubu island:) A series 2A is the prefect vehicle to learn how to drive a 4x4. You cannot go fast - so you learn to protect the vehicle as well as your kidney's. Modern vehicles allow you to go too fast as they are too comfortable, leading to vehicle damage and accidents as you do not have the grip to match the speed. You learn to let your tyres down a bit on gravel roads so that they a 'comfortable'. You learn to read lines so you do not get the vehicle cross axeled. It was my first ever 4x4 I bought whilst living in Namibia so I do see everything through rose tinted glass. Also as the driver it is a very different experience than being a passenger. With regards to electronics etc I have had a Disco 3 since new in 2007 which has just over 400k on the clock now and has done close to 150k on poor gravel and 'off road' going places like Kubu island, Kaudum game reserve, Epupa falls, Mana pools etc and despite a number of 'faults' it has never been unable to return home - even with a Christmas tree of lights on dash. Also you can install a very simple plug and play "Lift" system to allow you to travel faster in the high setting on sand roads. Like all vehicles you need to know the weak points and prepare properly, then you tend not to have any dramas. Finally with regards to tyres you can get the Discoverer S/T Maxx is Cooper's On-/Off- Road Commercial Traction light truck in 255/85R16 - maybe worth looking at. Keep up the good work. - Sorry was meant to be short.

[@colindunn864]

I have been able to idle my 1hz on cheese cutters past overpowered modern monsters on fat rubber in sand while they watch in amazement it’s an awesome feeling. Most people who run fats would be embarrassed by the skinny look and those that knock them will have never done the off road miles in them to learn any different.

[@jelledofferhoff843]

Hi Andrew, Great video you take the words out of my mouth. I run 255/85R16 BFG km3 mud terrains on my second gen Pajero and I love how they perform off road, but I live in the netherlands and we have allot of good roads so I don't really need a mud terrain and all its down sides. And also in Europe there are mandates for winter tires and there are sadly now no tires available. So it would be illegal to drive to my next door neighbours countries, like Germany and luxembourg. At certian times of the year. And the fines are quite hefty.

[@discoveringwa2204]

Andrew, regarding your new build with Aussie products, I currently have a 50th anniversary Engel in the back of my car, it's lived all it's life in the 200. I have another that still runs great, albeit a bit noisy, but it still runs fantastic. Hence, it being relegated to the shed. About 12 months ago I purchased an Evakool Downunder 47 litre chest fridge/ freezer. It lives on a box on the back of our van, next to the Weber. This fridge was approx half the price of an Engel and in my opinion out performs the Engel due to what appears to be a lower power consumption. Very much worth a look. Evakool used to be a bit of a dog in the past, but now employ real fridge experts to oversee the all Australian made fridge, apart from the cabinet, but it is painted here. Totally enjoyed your show. I just drove 12000+ km on a set of Faulken AT's on our van on watching your experience's with them. Performed faultlessly on the shitty NT and SA roads.

[@4xoverland]

You make a good point. No longer a need to spend top $ for a good fridge.

[@landrover1155]

Mate the Downunder II model is completely built in Australia on the Sunshine Coast (even the cabinet) and it is an absolute gem - build quality, temp stability, really clever features etc. Love it. Cheers

[@veziqiniso4425]

@4xoverland How is the 255/85R16 COOPER ST MAXX LT 123Q RBL

[@Ronhickmott]

I have just ordered a set of Yokohama geolandar mt's in 255/85r16 for my td5 disco, they're a true 33" tyre, the yanks call them a pizza cutter, but they are not, they're 10" wide which is a good compromise.

[@TheArech]

Yep. I was skeptical about pizza-cutters until I tried them on my own car: switching from BFG KM2 MT 31/10.5/16 to Duratrac AT 235/85/16 was probably a single the best non-obvious (to me at the time) decision I've made. Ride quality improved immensely (which matters a lot when before reaching your destination where 4x4 is needed you need to drive 1-2 thousands km on asphalt), fuel economy improved, but I can't even say that off-road qualities became prohibitively worse - they got worse indeed due to switch to AT, but nonetheless I had never stuck anyway and the benefits overweighted it by a large margin. KM2 MT in that size would notably work better than the same KM2 as fatties I used before. So yeah, there's a choice in MT vs AT debate, which still depend on a use-case, but there's much less choice in fattys vs pizza-cutters...

[@xaver133]

Cooper makes the Discoverer S/T Maxx in 255/85R16, but I think it's only available in the US. A you state 255/85R16 is a an extremly underrated tire size.

[@mnsn72]

Exactly man the width doesn’t outperform the narrow tires from the same size as 33s here in saudi Arabia lot of sands about 80% of people uses the narrow tires since along time they were performing amazing the new idea of wide tires just came to us and it didn’t make any sense because the results shows the opposite.. when deflating the wide tires they get wider print, but when deflating narrow tyre it doesn’t get too wide but the print gets longer.. this is what made the allegations of wide tires superiority in people minds now a-days they thought about wider prints only they didn’t get the idea of longer prints

[@leftcoastoverland8750]

Looking forward to the Grenadier review

[@jerryfrench2981]

Very interesting & enjoyable show - Thanks. My take is a thinner tyre is probably as good on the sand but they are certainly not as good on the tarmac especially in the wet. Most people buying 4WD tyres would spend more time on the black top fully aired up than out bush. Hence manufacturers would be more likely to target this market.

[@tatrasouth-africa]

I remembered something. When in the SANDF 1990-1. I was in charge of a motor pool . The base had some tyres I inhereted, they were very odd . It was the tyres of an old Toyota Stout. A huge profile small rim , a 15 inch . Just thought those might just be the most ideal sand tyre ever. To note they were marie biscuit thin.

[@kubarybczynski5565]

Hi Andrew, I had the same problem, been thinking about that for my pickup puma defender with overland canopy and I went down to 15 inch. You got your perfect size there - 33x10.5R15 which further improve profile and BFG is making them in MT and AT option. The remain question would be if rims will clear calipers/disc rotors in your troopy.

[@valiantthor_]

I had 33/10.5r15 BFG KM2s on my GQ early on and they were great, I'd love a 35/10.5r16 or equivalent now, Currently on 315/75r16 and you're right, They're about an inch too wide

[@valiantthor_]

As a mud tyre I mean, All terrains don't suit me personally

[@SteveBurns80]

I really believe that the perfect tyre size does already exists in the 285/75/r16. Certainly not too wide for heavy Cruiser, especially top a heavy Troopy or 79series. I agree that a skinner tyre will work better in sand and mud, but a wider tyre such as a 285 still works great but will also work far better at keeping the vehicle more stable throughout very off camber ruts and rocks. And like you say, wider tyres are much better "on road". Every 4x4 tyre size and construction will have it's pros and cons, however, the good old 285/75/r16 (33") has more pros than cons, and the two biggest pros would be... 1. Availability in nearly every brand and construction, 2. Good width/diameter ratio (the taller you go, the width needs to increase for better stability.

[@donpardo1]

I agree ☝🏼 with your comments 100% , Steveburns80 . This size 285x75xR16 is readily available at most tyres suppliers and obviously that tyre size does not need to be invented. I run 285x70xR17 (33’s) on my Navara. I think 17 inch rims handle slightly better on bitumen (where I drive the most by far)than 16 inch. They still have enough side wall hight for serious off-road driving adjustment and I run 13 psi on sand and hardly ever get bogged. Cheers 👍

[@mojavedesertsonorandesert9531]

32×11×15 works just fine!

[@rexatkinson9847]

i had the same problem on 03 model. not easy to get at. otherwise a good vehicle.

[@beam3250]

Agree. Not only 255/85R16 are missing. If this principles would be understood, the tire manufacturers would build a lot of other tires in 75, 80 or better 85. 70 would disappear if people would prefer narrower tires. I am one of them being angry about the posers

[@Luke-ly6od]

In regards to getting the most profile possible, the higher profile will affect on road handling. I personally think 75 profile is a good compromise. I run 285/75r18, this size has all the advantages of a 35" tyre without the poor handling characteristics normally associated with big tyres. Oh, and they're an all terrain, G015 Yokohama.

[@sweed58]

You talking about tyres reminded me of avon 7.50x16 tyres the farmers favourites on their land rovers

[@4xoverland]

That's the size I ran on my Defender. But they were General Grabbers. Avons are far too soft for hot, hard gravel. I know of several people who ran them and they had flats all of the time. The Grabbers at the time were the best tyre I'd ever had.

[@cyclemoto8744]

I haven't had any concerning issues with brand name MT 33" tyres in the wet. I do agree with narrower tyres and intend to go narrower if possible with my next purchase but disagree with the negatives in the wet on a 70 series cruiser. e.g. when the rear steps out in the wet it is only because I've put in a little too much throttle yet the slight slide is VERY controllable. Thanks for the content. Cheers

[@mkoutdoor]

I have 255/85R16 Falken MT on a land rover seems to be good size approx 33 x 10. These as you know are not very aggressive for an MT relative to some others on the market. Seems to be the best size compromise for on and off road. Did have a recent tire issue that I am still waiting to have sorted with one of them. I agree we need more narrow tires at reasonable off road diameter. In the US it seems that everyone wants to run wide tires. currently running 285/75R17 Toyo AT on my jeep gladiator but Mickey Thompson has a 255/85R17 that looks interesting which is AT which I am strongly consider for my next tire.

[@zr1pja]

Hi. The last thing one needs is bulging side side walls. That is a recipe for sidewall punctures that are almost impossible to repair.

[@peterassel562]

Did Fraser island and a few other places with the stock steels and the Bridgestone duelers and drove past many bogged 4wd easily. The standard workmate setup is just superb although the duelers hate bitumen.

[@Legrascestlavie88]

Best tyre i ever hD on the troopie is a nokian outpost...235/85/16. Thee is no metal in it, but kevlar... it is half the weight of the a/t and makes the troopie so nimble with the magnesium wheels.

[@aslkdfjhg]

To debunk another myth, a wide tyre is not necessarily better at carrying a load than a skinny. Ask any trucker, it's all about side wall strength. A rated LT tyre is designed to carry a heavy load all day like, even if it looks relatively small and narrow. Also changing the offset can put more strain on the rear bearings. Just go with what the vehicle was designed for.