1989 BJ73 – Hello from Northern VA / Tire Question

[tashtego2000]

Hey y'all,

New member here in the Northern VA / DC area. Driving a 1989 BJ-73 with the 3B and stock 15" wheels. I was stationed in Japan and brought the LC back with me. (Too good to leave behind!).

Glad to finally be on the forum after lurking for a while. Have found so much good advice here.

I’m due for new tires and trying to source 215/80R15 102S in the U.S. I’d like to stay with the stock size and load rating if possible. I don’t really have the budget to swap wheels right now, but could save up for it, if it's ultimately necessary.

Has anyone found a reliable supplier for this size recently? If they’ve basically disappeared, what are other BJ73 owners running while keeping the stock 15-inch wheels and safe load capacity?

Thanks for any and all help!
-RT

Appreciate any guidance. Looking forward to learning from everyone!

 

[Eurasiaoverland]

That's beautiful, nice find! And it should have the much improved 3BII engine. If you get a chance, I'd love to see some pictures of the engine

As for tyres, I don't believe that is the standard tyre size, though I may be wrong. I think in that era the standard tyre would have been a 7.00x15, which today is closest to a 225 75 R15. Maybe that size is more common there?

 

[LDowney]

Nominally, your 215/80R15 equates to a 28.5" by 8.4" R15. It does not appear to be size that is commonly stocked, so you may have to make a best choice per your priorities (size, cost, availability, extended interstate driving speeds, ...).

As to where to purchase from, your answer may follow what tire stores are in your area. To get feedback on that, checking via the chapter (clubhouse section) closest to you may surface helpful recommendations.

Kudos. Your 73 looks like an outstanding find

 

[Broski]

Nice ride !!
Welcome to MUD

 

[Gun Runner 5]

Would love to see your new ride in East Tennessee in September.

 

[76FJ40]

Welcome and nice ride neighbor. I can't help with tire sources, but my '89 BJ74 has 255-85-16s.

 

[DrRock]

It looks like General Tire offers a close match:

Grabber A/TX

An all-terrain tire for light trucks and SUVs. Designed to balance exceptional off-road capability with on-road performance with robust strength and durability.

generaltire.com

It's a 75 profile and the diameter is 27.7" but this might suit your needs.