2.5L Tire & Wheels

[COMANCH3]

Time to replace the current tires on the MJ and wanted to know if I’d see a significant loss in power or potential axel/driveshaft issues. Current tires are Toyo Eclipse P205/70 R15 with stock steel 15x6 wheels. Wheel and tire weight 40 lbs. I have a stock set of alloy 15x7s that weigh 22 lbs each. I am considering the same size tires or 215/70 R15 on the alloy wheels. Depending on if I go all season or all terrain, and the size of the tire, estimated weight range is between 44 and 50 lbs. Any issues moving up to the bigger wheel, tire, and additional rotating mass? I know it’s very minor, one size up on both the wheel and tire, but once they’re purchased and on the truck, I’m stuck with them. Do you recommend staying at 40 or will I be fine at 45-50 lbs.?

 

I have the very desired 2.5L, 2WD, 4-speed manual with no power steering! Current setup is “peppy” for being the 2.5L. I drive the MJ about a dozen times a year. Given my location, you must use the interstates (65 mph) to get from point A to B. Thanks in advance. 

[JZLAJeep]

Those are pretty small tires. We usually run 235/75/15 on MJ and XJ. I can't imagine you'll see any difference with 215/70/15 over 205/70/15. You can likely go larger without real noticeable difference in performance.

 

Given how little you drive it, I'd look for used tires. Can find used tires for 1/3 the price of new. I've gone to buying used tires for all of my vehicles... When shopping for used, it's likely easier to find 235/75/15 used than 215/70/15 or 205/70/15, but keep your eye out for any 4 matching 15" tires...

[garyweb3]

I run 215/70/R15 Radial TA's on my 87 Comanche with the same driveline as your truck. They're on the factory alloy wheels. Been on the truck for over 30 years. Not the same tires the whole time.

Edited 20 hours ago by garyweb3
wrong info

[COMANCH3]

I’m assuming anything in the 195-225 range will be fine, given that’s what they came with. Wasn’t sure if the weight from a heavier tire in that size range would affect anything, specifically acceleration with the smaller engine. 

 

My neighbor has a CJ8 with a 2.5L and the tire shop talked him into putting on the biggest KO2s (31s or 32s) that would fit. A month later they were sitting in his driveway for sale. He said he regretted going that big and lost all power.