M813 + xlz 395/85r20

[M215]

Hello All,
Anyone running XLZ 395/85R20 tires on their 5 tons, what are your experiences? Currently I'm running 14.00x20s on Hemitt rims on our M813A1, this vehicles purpose is to pull our Halftrack to shows. My thoughts are with the smaller 395s (46") compared to the 14.00x20 (49") I could regain some of the lost torque and keep the super single set up.
Any constructive input is appreciated.
Karl

 

[M215]

Btt

 

[gimpyrobb]

I doubt that 2-3 inch difference would make much difference.

 

[350TacoZilla]

I dunno alot of guys that run 14.00's and switch to 16.00's comment on huge difference in hill and towing power. i would think the 46's would be good choice and you can also go to a standard 5 ton combat or fmtv wheel as they are lighter to loose little more rotating mass. m939 guys seem to love the 395's and i plan to run set on my truck.

If you are interested in some I have 395 michelins for sale on here, can help with delivery, maybe meet partway or something.

http://www.steelsoldiers.com/showthread.php?100348-7-Michelin-xml-395-s-Hemtt-rims

 

[gimpyrobb]

He is already singled out, no big weight loss to be had there. When you go from 1400-1600, thats 5 inches, a bigger difference. I think the major issue is what he is driving/pulling. That is a lot of weight!

215, nobody near you to let you try their 395s?! I pulled my wrecker(m62) with a trailer(m105) hooked to it, with a 250 in a can and 1000lbs of tools in it from Kip's to Stretch's with DH's m819. I was impressed with the power of the 250. It had even MORE power, once DH got me to pull over and turn off the trailer brakes(oops)!

 

[M215]

Thank you for the responses! Our existing 14.00x20s have some minor sidewall cracking, I'm considering replacing them for safety before summer. The smaller 395s look like a good option.

Karl

 

[350TacoZilla]

hemtt wheels weigh around 125-150 each and combats weigh around 95 if I remember correct, 395's weigh about 30lbs less than 14.00's so he would be looking at atleast 50lbs less per tire/wheel plus have about 2" less circumference. 16.00s are 52" and 14.00 are 48" so thats only 4" jump up and guys state a huge loss of power. I'm not saying it will be like adding a turbo or anything but it should be a noticeable gain in towing power.

 

[gimpyrobb]

Well, I'm running 395s on hemtt rims on my deuce. I have been VERY pleased with the XZL tread pattern. The first 395s I ran were the XML and they wore like crap, granted, they are more of a mud design. I would look for the XZL or the MVT, they seem to be the best "all terrain". Good luck Karl.

 

[M813A1]

Another option is to use 1200X20 tires they are 44" tall and will give some torque back and still have good road speed as well !!