31 X 10.5 Versus 235-70r15

I have been through the Ross set up for the most part. On jack stands everything is free and happy. It's tough to turn the 31 x 10.5s on concrete/asphalt when not rolling. My recent snowplow install made this even tougher. While it is true I am getting old and weak I have been wanting to put stock sized mud tires on it. My question is how much difference will this really make? I am capable of adding a saginaw power steering setup but wouldn't mind letting this be as stock as possible. Signature should fill in the blanks. I look forward to the comments. Thanks

 

My '79 CJ-5 was provided to me w/ Cooper Discoverer STT Pro 31x10.5R15LT on original 15"x8" white spoke steel wheels w/ spacers.

My daily tires are now 31x10.5R15LT Michelin Defender LTX M/S tires on Cragar Series 310 Nomad 15"x7" wheels w/ their chrome center caps w/o the spacers.

The audible pavement noise is sooo much better w/ the Michelin tires. Also handles very nicely now too.

 

I have a ‘67 FJ40 Landcruiser that I’ve plowed with for almost 30 years. It still has the manual steering. I’m setting up my ‘69 CJ5 (Saginaw manual steering) to take the plow so that I can do a rebuild on the Cruiser. The plow definitely makes the steering harder and long plow sessions ( 2 hours or more) do make my shoulder a little sore. I run 215/85r16 tires. They are about the same height as a 31x10.5r15 but considerably narrower. I like that size tire as it allows good clearance for running chains and the steering is easier than a wider tire. My folks place has a fair amount of curves, corners, and hills, so the steering gets a workout but the vast majority of the time you’re rolling as you’re turning so that makes it easier. I plan to run the same size tire on the CJ5. The downside of that size is there is not the selection there used to be. When I rebuild the 40, I’ll be adding power steering but don’t currently plan on adding it to the CJ. Good luck.
Tim

 

It's bad form to turn the steering wheel when not rolling (unless absolutely necessary). Put's a lot more strain on the steering components.

 

Michelins are GREAT road tires, but the soft sidewalls are not the best for off-roading.

 

Agreed.

Now I have two sets of tires and wheels.

The original 43 year old white steel wheels would constantly bleed small amounts of rust through the tiny pits, always looking dirty.

The rubber has been removed so I can sand / paint / paint new pin striping before replacing those Cooper tires for off road fun. Now w/o pits / rust staining.

 

My daily tires are now 31x10.5R15LT Michelin Defender LTX M/S tires


I'll never get used to seeing a Jeep on street tires. Do you get much snow where you are?

But I understand. Not everyone lives in the boonies.

 

This time of year, lows around 70°F and highs in the low 80s...

It is over an hour drive to get to off road areas, so this is currently an asphalt jungle vehicle.

 

I think you are asking too much of it. Your gonna have to go with like the original 7.00-15 size to get easier. But try airing up the tires that should help alot like 45 or 50 psi with the plow on it.

 

This.

 

I appreciate all the feedback. Thanks