Advise needed on tire size tall skinny

[NO fear 4 XJs]

Hi, I`m new to the forum & off roading...

My rig is a 1997 XJ with stock axles front dana 30 rear chrysler 8.25 and gearing 3:55, RE 3.5 super ride, OME long travel shocks.

My question, power loss & stance stability not concerned about fenders, will I be safe with LT255/85R 16 (same as 33.5X10.2) or should I go with LT235/85R16 (same as 32X9.4)

I think it is only 3/4 inch of difference in lift height but keep in mind I would be using a wheel with 4.5 of Backspacing, any advise would help.

Thanks for your time.

[Cody1771]

are you going to be wheeling? exploring? planning on driving long distances? the larger wider tires will provide better grip but im not sure if you could fit 33.5 inch tires without some fender rub at full stuff, id lean towards the smaller skinnier, might not loose as much fuel economy eather...

[NO fear 4 XJs]

Plan is to keep as DD and use for wheeling in Lowermainland areas, nothing to far off the beaten trails.

I`m not to sure if I should go with LT265/75R16 (31.9X10.8) but having concerns about this size on a 16 inch rim...

[BigWhiteFord]

I had a 2000 XJ with 33x10.5 BFG mud terrains. That size was fantastic offroad (I had about 5.5" of lift and trimmed fenders, no rubbing problems). The power loss was very noticeable on the highway though. Mine was an auto trans, and I think it would have really benefited from regearing to 4.56

That being said, I still used it without problem to tow the tent trailer I had (2500 lb) and aside from being passed by old VW buses on any significant hills, the XJ still had lots of power, just had to slow down and gear down.

I think Kelly remembers many trips (especially Hwy 1 on the way to our Boston Bar trip) where my XJ was very capable offroad, but always playing catch-up-Charlie until we got to the trailhead. :cheers:

[NO fear 4 XJs]

Thanks for the imput, I`m going with the 265/75R 16 tire by Toyo.

If I regear I would probably want a 33/11.50 or 35/11.50 Xj`s are narrow & light as it is.