TX_TLC said:
Not to hijack...but Kalawang is that a stock rear tire carrier for your non US spec 80? I would like to see more pics of it...
Where are you located?
Thanks
TX_TLC,
The tire carrier came with the LC80 which came as junk when I bought it. The 315x75R16 on that carrier effectively blocks your rear view on the right and also reduces the visibility of your right rear tail light. You can see and be seen much more easily when you mount 33's. I've since worn out the 315's and have mounted 33's of the same brand and model, Yokohama M/T's. My lift is only 2", but close enough for illustrative purposes. I've also added a cheap 3'd brake light.
The LC80 is a converted Japanese Deisel, and came with the 4.11 gears. There is a very small subtle improvement in power when you move to 33's from 35's. A 2" lift with 35's works better on the street than off road, unless the off road use is VERY mild. River crossings are definitely more doable with large tires because of the greater clearance, but full flexing causes the tires to rub. There are sometimes rocks in the river that you have to climb rather than straddle or go around.
Bear80,
For street use, 35's become bling but are not a problem unless you like flying over speed bumps. 33's are probably more practicle as they give you more room in the wheel well for flex and as some US Cruisers came with a 3.70 which would probably make the power loss more apparent, but gives a better top end. SLEE advises that you use at least a 4" lift if you go to 35" tires and that is good advice if you want to use the Cruiser with full flex capability. In the street, you hardly ever do that much flex.
I suggest you look for someone with a car like yours fitted with 35's and ask for a ride. It will tell you much. If you don't know what your gearing is, go to a gas staion, lift your car and turn the rear wheels one revolution, while counting the number of turns your drive shaft makes. It's easier if you mark them with chalk first. If you already have 4.11, you might find the acceleration acceptable.
For sure, if you go to 35's you will need more stopping room and will therefore have to learn to brake earlier. The heavier tires will also shorten the life of your bearings and tie rod ends, but that will not mean much as they take a long time regardless. Also, if you're driving a very old much used car, you'll find things giving up the ghost. That doesn't mean that much as they would have probably been about to give up the ghost anyway. More significant will be changeing a flat and trying to get the tire on the carrier.
Personally, I find the 33's adequate for my 2" lift and only miss the low rpm cruising I used to get on long trips. However I like the ease I now have of getting in and out and the easier time I now have putting luggage in and out of the rear. I'm no longer as tall nor see as far but, for me, it hasn't been a great loss.
Kalawang
behind in the asphalt and transcend into something capable of nearly anything but fitting back into the garage .. 
