Introduction:

One of common questions about improving vehicle's all-terrain performance and endurance is "what is the most effective modification to apply to my vehicle?". Well, using proper tyres, and using them properly, is arguably the most effective vehicle "mod" for all-terrain use.

Notice: "Most effective" can generally mean in the context of cost, performance, simplicity or endurance. Using proper tyres properly is can be the most effective "mod" in all of those ways!

This document includes on the following topics: 1. Choosing a proper tyre type for the desired usage; 2. Choosing a tyre size; 3. List of various tyre models with remarks; 4. Best practices on tyre usage (wheel rotation, wheel balancing, air pressures, rim and tyre repairs); 5. Special situations and combinations;

General remarks

First of all, some basic remarks about using tyres on four wheel drive vehicles:

1. Jimny is a part-time 4WD vehicle, and an inherent requirement of that transmission design means that all it has to use all four tyres of the same profile (size). Furthermore, all four tyres should be the same model and have a very similar tread depth (even small differences between rotational friction and wheel circumference among wheels can damage the transmission in the long term). This limits the combinations when choosing (buying) tyres. Notice: Even full-time 4WD vehicles should use all four same tyres because, when their central differential gets locked in all-terrain use, they behave the same as part-time 4WD vehicles.

2. Frequent checking (and adjusting) of air pressures is much more important for all-terrain use than on ordinary on-road use, because pressures significantly affect traction as well as the risk of tyre damage.

3. Wheel (dis)balancing is a much more prominent issue for all-terrain use, especially for Jimnys as they are notorius for developing a "death wobble" issue. It is a genetic trait derived from their short wheelbase and solid front axle suspension design.

1. Choosing a proper tyre type for the desired usage.