Help! I want bigger tires for my VX

[Riff Raff]

Hi Ashley--- Welcome, fellow "Washingtonian"!!!

Ah, my favorite subject (sorry, internal joke amongst this forum). Your tire guy is right to a point. Your OEM tires on your VX weigh only 34 lbs each, and the factory OEM braking system was designed to accomodate primarily only this amount weight but can safely handle a marginal increase in aftermarket tire weight without harm.

The recommended variance for additional tire weight of an aftermarket tire is not to exceed 10 lbs over OEM; or in our VX case, a tire that weighs no more than 44 lbs max. Any tire heavier than 44 lbs each puts additional strain on the OEM braking system and it is recommended that high performance brake components be installed to accomodate the extra burden.

Are there larger VX tires that are within the 44 lb target point available on the market to safely run without having to upgrade the OEM brakes??? Heck, yes!!! Just visit www.TireRack.com and browse over various tires that spark your interest and specifically look at the "spec" page that will show individual tire weight on the chart. Generally speaking, you will find the TireRack website to be a wealth of knowledge and a valuable source.

Of note, the lightest brand of Mud-Terrain (M/T) tires on the market are made by YOKOHAMA TIRE and can be viewed at their factory website complete with weight specifications. Happy hunting!!!

[tom4bren]

Ashley,

At the other end of the spectrum, I did everything that Riff Raff hates with no ill effects (if done right). I'm lifted 3" and am running 33x12.50 Wranglers on 15" rims. I have not upgraded anything on my braking system ... yet. I'd like to go with stainless steel lines eventually. I will warn you though that if you lift, you put your CV joints at a harsh angle which will cause early failure of the boots. There is a fix for that though & we can help you with that if you get to that point.