Hi all, I have a '93 XL 2wd that I'd like to put some larger tires on and possibly a diff. locker.

1) The stock wheel is 15x6. I'll be getting new wheels to fit much wider tires on but I don't know if I should go with 15" or 16" or if it really matters. I have the wheels picked out, I just don't know which size would be best.

To put 31x10.5 tires on 16" wheels, what size would that be in metric?

Edit: Found a chart, it'd be 255/70/16
Edit #2: Looks like I'll be sticking with 15"s for tire availability and price.


2) If I go up from the 235/75/15 tire size to 31", will it be an issue for the truck? It's a 5.8l with axle code 19, which I think is 3.55 gear ratio. With regards to power, will the larger tires be an issue?


3) I've read that a diff. locker will help with off road stuff a little. I won't be going crazy off road but I hike/camp quite a bit and some extra ability to get places would be nice. It's no replacement for a 4x4 but until I can buy a 4x4, is there anything I can do to help with off road ability?

Edit #4: Would the Powertrax Lock-Right Locker be what I want?


Edit: Oh yeah, are there any tire recommendations? Something that looks decently agressive that will do well off road. Thanks!

Edit #3: I've narrowed down the tire selection, what do you guys think?

Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac
BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM2

 

With a 5.8, 3.55 locker and 31's you won't lose much power if any.
Stick with a 15" wheel for better tire prices. I would get the goodyear tires over the BFgoodrich's. I have heard some not so good things about the new BF m/t and goodyear tires have always been good.
The locker you have a link to is for the front axle of a 4x4 truck of these years, you want to look for one for an 8.8 axle.
Look at aussie lockers, powertrax and possibly others. I'd go to 4wheelparts, put in your trucks info and look around. Aussie lockers aren't on there though.
Also look other places for better tire prices, always consider shipping when buying tires.
I like www.ntwonline.com, summit and 4wheel parts. Maybe even discount tire, they have good prices.

 

Thanks for the feedback!

I'm noticing a lot of people put 33s on with either a lift or leveling kit. I want to level it, so I can just do that when I get the tires. Would 33s work fine? The pictures I'm finding with 33s look good.

 

I think with a 2x4 you can only fit a 32 11.5 with a level, not positive though.
My truck is a 4x4 with heavy suspension so I can't offer a true opinion on tire size, I know 31 will fit though.

 

Looks like 4wheelparts has a shop out in SLC, UT. I'll have to drop in there and see how much they laugh at my ignorant questions.

Thanks for the help!

 

If there is one close then I would definitely go to them for help, and for installs. Just don't let them talk you into unnecessary things, if you are unsure you're better off to ask on here and wait for a response than rely on them.