NTH

So for those of you who have upgraded to 265/70-17 or larger tires, did you leave the spare at stock size 265/65-17? I realize that the job of the differential is to compensate for different speeds on the same axle, but if you had to use the 265/65 spare tire in an emergency, will that do any driveline damage? Thanks

Ali SC3

iTrader: (10)

you would not want to do it for very long and it will constantly be engaging the lsd in the center diff which is arguably used to doing that for splitting power front and rear, but you will be severely overworking the gears in the rear open diff (assuming you put spare on rear as recommended and haven't installed a limited slip rear) . the 265/70 is not that much larger than stock you could air the opposite tire on the same axle down a little bit to make up for some of the height difference or really just change the spare to a 265/70 as it will fit.

For safety it is always recommended that if you must do it, put the different size tire on the rear axle.
That means if you have a flat up front, taking the flat off, moving a good rear wheel up to the front, and then placing the spare on the rear axle.
This is done to prevent dangerous handling characteristics when having a different size tire on a wheel that is used for steering on an AWD vehicle.
Never put a smaller spare on the front of your GX470, its a bad idea. I wouldn't put it on the rear even but if its an emergency that is where it goes.

That being said I just got the road hazard on my 4 larger tires, and can just call and have it towed and replaced, but its always nive to have a spare in a hurry.

BTW you can fit a 265/70/17 on the spare which is what I would recommend anyone who changes tire sizes should just go ahead and do that.
its hard to fit a 285/70 but people say you can if you air them wayyy down and keep a compressor in the car.

IanB2

I bought my FJ Cruiser wheels with tires, so I left one mounted and used it as a spare (I bought a set of 5 wheels/tires). FJ Cruiser stock tire size is 265/70/17, so it's the same size as my new tires. Spare fit under the truck in the stock location with no problems.

NTH

Thanks guys, appreciate the feedback. I just picked up a set of 4 FJ 6-spokes with tires for a fantastic deal. They come with the stock 265-70-17, hence the question. I'm planning on keeping the factory 265-65 as my spare. I think if I had to use it in an emergency, it should be ok to limp to a tire shop or call for towing if I'm way out in the boonies. Haven't had the time to mount up for pics so hopefully this weekend.

Ali SC3

iTrader: (10)

I would definitely throw a 265 70 on there at your next tire replacement have them move the best one to the spare. Or just find a good used for it and then you don't have to worry about it. I'm getting a 5th rim and putting a 285/70 on it I will make it fit one way or another

NTH

My Yokohama Geo are newish so it'll be some time before replacement. Think I'll pick up a used 265/70. Thanks

IanB2

To fit a 285 you might have to deflate it some, and carry a compressor should you ever need the spare. I'm not sure how much extra room is down there.