How small tires can you run on a LandCruiser?

[Erwin]

I have a HZJ78 Troopy that currently is fitted with 285/75-16 BFG Mud tires. I dont like them at all. The car is used for overlanding in Europe, Asia and later maybe, Africa. I have been doing overlanding for 10 years in my old car, a HDJ80 fitted with 285/75-16 BFG AT tires.
First of all, I dont like the Mud pattern. When overlanding I would say 80% of the driving is on gravel or tarmac. The Muds are noisy, but worst of all, braking efficiency is terrible. I guess fuel mileage is also bad. With the 80 and AT's I have been in rather muddy conditions without a stop. Both cars have lockers all around and that helps. So Muds go off in favor of AT.
But then, what size? The somewhat provoking title suggest I believe this "biggest size possible" is a hype. I have been reading around, and what seems to be experienced people say skinny tires are the best for all round use, except for glaciers on Iceland. The 78, even with a turbo and IC seems to be to high geared for the 285 size.
The problem is that I have never tested skinny tires as both cars where fitted with 285 when i purchased them.
235/85-16 seems to be a good choice, but since my rims are steel 8 inches they are to narrow. Good rims are expensive, so I am thinking on 275/75-16.
What do you think?

My cruiser collection for attention:

 

[AlaskanWheeler]

215/65R16 if you go with BFG all terrains

 

[iwashmycar]

Not the same case as I have a FJC but I went from 295/75r16 to 255/85r16 and I am smitten. They are so much better on and offroad.

I would suggest trying to get some 7" wide rims and go with the 235s or 255s if you want a little more height.

 

[MountaineerLC]

I ran 265/75r16 (32") on my Land Rover Disco II for years without complaint. I've got 285/75r16 on my LC 100 right now and can't complaint. They fit the trick nicely, but I may go 255/85r16 when it toke for a new set.

 

[bigredmachine]

255/85/16 would be a skinny 33 and there should be some good choices for you to pick from

 

[cruiserpilot]

That’s a really nice collection. Try fitting those tires and wheels from your 40 onto the Troopy and go from there. 8” is 200 mm. So a 235 or 255 would be best for touring. I’ve met several dozen Troopy’s on the northern highways in Canada, all from overseas on multi-month / year tours. They all run a standard all terrain or road tread. Only a couple have had mud treads. They were definitely lighter loaded rigs. I run what is considered huge for long distance touring 285/75R17 but I spend some dedicated time way off road every time. And I count every pound.
hope this helps. Please - PM me, I want to ask you some questions about your Troopy

 

[FJ73Texas]

255/85/16 would be a skinny 33 and there should be some good choices for you to pick from

I second this. Tall and skinny LT tires is best IMHO. 255 seems to hit the sweet spot for 8 inch rims.

 

[Toyboy]

255/85 16 for me are the best choice, the problem that is difficult to find AT in that measure, here in Italy you find them only mud, bf goodrige or toyo

 

[FJBen]

I'm running 255/85r16 on factory 70 series wheels. They fit fine and very pleased with the size. Previously had 235/85r16 if you want closer to a factory size, I prefer the 255's. I'm running Yokohama G003 M/T's.

 

[renago]

I have the same car , Toyota 78 , with HD-T motor ,
my best choice for road use is 265-75-16 AT yokohama geolander.
for off road or overloading in Africa , I use 255-85-16 Toyo.
of course the 255 , will degrade the braking efficiency , and false also the odometer , but in Africa this is not a big problem
you get as a plus more ground clearance , and stronger sidewalls , and when you deflate the traction is superb .
I am not that concerned about mud traction , as far as when you get really muddy in certain regions , mud is 70 cm deep for several km ...any tire is useless
285-75-16 , I don't like as well too wide , for the 78 .
maybe on other cars it works better ??