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so to explain.... so people understand.... I think you all know what I think of opinions.... anyway. I wasn't looking for a larger tire, the 38/13 is the right size for the weight of this rig - however, the sizes go 315/75r16 to 385/70r16. There isn't another real option.
radial tires that clear the Ford calipers are somewhat of a challenge... in 16" wheels there is a bit, but until I found these, the largest radial was a 35 or swampers (which have a softer compound).
The entire point of this rig is long distance travel. Sure, I could trailer it, but then why wouldn't I simply build a buggy? Radial tires with big sidewalls (not these hateful forklift -thin-sidewalls) is what I want. Of course, they also weigh more... I wouldn't be surprised at all to see 20 lbs more per corner (and I do need to weight these to find out).
The next part of this build is to get better fuel economy. I would have put a r2.8 cummins in it if they had been available and may yet still - with that said, the other choice is something I've very familiar with - the 6.5 Detroit diesel..... I want 16 or better.... I know I can get it with the 6.5, I think the 2.8 may have to work too hard to get it.
I have a steering change to make, it was a compromise that I didn't make the panhard bar as long as the steering cross shaft. To me, it's fine and an anti-theft device - but to truly be distance travel... it needs to be right....
the steering fix is next, then I'm going to start narrowing in on what motor.... there is a going joke about how many Corvettes I'll build while owning this... the answer is 3 and counting.... that black one may have found a new home (and I really don't 'want' to sell it, but it's a car, but there's a back story and the short version is the guy who caused the build may buy it - and the money would be nice )
radial tires that clear the Ford calipers are somewhat of a challenge... in 16" wheels there is a bit, but until I found these, the largest radial was a 35 or swampers (which have a softer compound).
The entire point of this rig is long distance travel. Sure, I could trailer it, but then why wouldn't I simply build a buggy? Radial tires with big sidewalls (not these hateful forklift -thin-sidewalls) is what I want. Of course, they also weigh more... I wouldn't be surprised at all to see 20 lbs more per corner (and I do need to weight these to find out).
The next part of this build is to get better fuel economy. I would have put a r2.8 cummins in it if they had been available and may yet still - with that said, the other choice is something I've very familiar with - the 6.5 Detroit diesel..... I want 16 or better.... I know I can get it with the 6.5, I think the 2.8 may have to work too hard to get it.
I have a steering change to make, it was a compromise that I didn't make the panhard bar as long as the steering cross shaft. To me, it's fine and an anti-theft device - but to truly be distance travel... it needs to be right....
the steering fix is next, then I'm going to start narrowing in on what motor.... there is a going joke about how many Corvettes I'll build while owning this... the answer is 3 and counting.... that black one may have found a new home (and I really don't 'want' to sell it, but it's a car, but there's a back story and the short version is the guy who caused the build may buy it - and the money would be nice )