So I don't have a VehiCROSS YET, but hopefully this all changes this weekend. My first change will be a lift (likely 913 springs... just like the look better, and appreciate what's been said about them being stiffer) and wheels/tires.
I've been leaning towards 33" tires, but I love the way Ldub's 35's look... yet that also seems ridiculous. I'm okay with hammering, cutting, etc. But I also want this to be fully functional. This is a 6th vehicle for me; it's only purpose will be getting me to and from trails (primarily obscure hiking/backpacking trails that my current vehicles just won't go), but also since I have it, it will also be used for just pure driving fun; I look forward to going over rocks, etc on very serious "trails", as well as mud, etc. I will never commute in the VehiCROSS (except to show it off to co-workers). So assume the only time I'm on paved roads is to get to obscure places.
From what I've read here, 33's seem very reasonable with some cutting of the cladding and hammering. Okay, cool. No problem. Is there really much of a difference between that at 34's? Any reason to NOT go to 34s? Of course I'm worried about things like CV joint wear, and just that much unsprung weight... Wheels will be 17x8 with 0 offset. The tires I'm getting will be the Goodyear MT/R with Kevlar, in either 285/70/17 (33"), or 305/70/17 (34.1"). Obviously with the 305 it could just rub more because it's wider. Is that worth worrying about? The 34" tires are 64 pounds, vs 58lbs of the 33s. Is that different enough to be concerned? Both are way more than stock already. Are 34s less likely to fit under the wheel well under full compression on serious trails? I want to be able to use what travel is available without worry! I understand it won't stop/go as quickly, etc, but I'm more concerned about wear on the various parts of the driveline, and also modification needed to make them fit. I've read people saying watching the guys with 35" tires is stressful, as in, it looks like the parts are so stressed and ready to break. I don't want that... I want reliability.
Hmm... BFG MT T/A KM2 comes in a 255/80R17, 33.3" size at a mere 49 pounds... an interesting option??? Not as aggressive, though...
I appreciate all your comments, and look forward to sharing my future experiences with you all!
David
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