So I think the Michelin Defender is the perfect all-terrain tire... (For most of us)

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So this thread might be an appropriate place to talk about air down pressures. Lately I've been running 22-24 PSI "Aired Down" on my 285/70/17 LT. I think I can go lower, but I'm a little concerned about the smooth sidewalls. What do you all think?
I have the same size and run it at 12-15 aired down.
 
I have the same size and run it at 12-15 aired down.
Are you noticing any better traction dropping another 5 lbs, no bottom outs?? I've noticed I'm getting about the same tire deflection at 22 psi with these as I did at 18 on the KO2.
 
Are you noticing any better traction dropping another 5 lbs, no bottom outs?? I've noticed I'm getting about the same tire deflection at 22 psi with these as I did at 18 on the KO2.
I mainly air down the defenders to ensure I don’t get any punctures, I’ve never had a chalk test aired down nor have I noticed any bottom outs
 
So this thread might be an appropriate place to talk about air down pressures. Lately I've been running 22-24 PSI "Aired Down" on my 285/70/17 LT. I think I can go lower, but I'm a little concerned about the smooth sidewalls. What do you all think?
I run closer to 15 PSI and have no issues.
 
I mainly air down the defenders to ensure I don’t get any punctures, I’ve never had a chalk test aired down nor have I noticed any bottom outs
I'll run 15-18 next time then. Thanks for the input.
 
Ok...how about if you have 285/60/18 XL?? Air down to what is safe? I have been down to 24 psi. Can i go lower?
 
So this thread might be an appropriate place to talk about air down pressures. Lately I've been running 22-24 PSI "Aired Down" on my 285/70/17 LT. I think I can go lower, but I'm a little concerned about the smooth sidewalls. What do you all think?
I've run them well below 10psi for way too long.
 
My current tires are Toyo A/T Open Country 285/60/18 120S. Which Defenders do I want? Link?

I tow a 3500lb camper a few times a month..that is my main concern.


LTXMS are used ubiquitously on trucks, and those that tow. What is the specific concern?
 

LTXMS are used ubiquitously on trucks, and those that tow. What is the specific concern?
My main concern is that I tow and I’d like the options to add more weight later on….not big bumpers or anything, but maybe a RTT and drawers while also towing…fam would be inside the vehicle as well.
 
Just check your load rating on the tire. 125 = 3640 x 4 = 14,560lbs.
 
My main concern is that I tow and I’d like the options to add more weight later on….not big bumpers or anything, but maybe a RTT and drawers while also towing…fam would be inside the vehicle as well.

I towed a 5000lbs trailer with 7 family members from desert to alpine shale. Big family here, lots of trailer time. Zero negative anecdote nor problem.
 
Dragging this thread back up. I have an upcoming trip to Banff and Jasper next week. Weather outlook is rain and snow (I have great timing for vacations)
I currently run the 275/65R18 LTX AT2s and they are getting low in tread and suck in snow. I really don't want to run my snow tires for this trip as that is a lot of miles for what may amount to small accumulations of snow. (probably less than 3")
I will be towing a 4K lb travel trailer.
I might have access to a set of 275/55R20 Defender LTX M/S and 20" wheels for a good price. (claims to only have about 5K miles on them)
Would the LTX M/S be a good enough tire to run in the snow while towing?
 
Dragging this thread back up. I have an upcoming trip to Banff and Jasper next week. Weather outlook is rain and snow (I have great timing for vacations)
I currently run the 275/65R18 LTX AT2s and they are getting low in tread and suck in snow. I really don't want to run my snow tires for this trip as that is a lot of miles for what may amount to small accumulations of snow. (probably less than 3")
I will be towing a 4K lb travel trailer.
I might have access to a set of 275/55R20 Defender LTX M/S and 20" wheels for a good price. (claims to only have about 5K miles on them)
Would the LTX M/S be a good enough tire to run in the snow while towing?

Hope you also make it over to Lake Louise while you are in Banff. It’a worth the drive over there.

As far as the LTX M/S goes, they’re not a dedicated snow tire, but probably give some of the best all terrain performance in the snow (when you compare them to other brands).

The bigger problem I have is, the downgrade to 20” inch rims instead of 18’s. Why not go to Costco (if you have one near you) and get a new set of Defenders on the 18” rims? I think they have a $100 bucks off right now for a set of 4.
 
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Hope you also make it over to Lake Louise while you are in Banff. It’a worth the drive over there.

As far as the LTX M/S goes, they’re not a dedicated snow tire, but probably give some of the best all terrain performance in the snow (when you compare them to other brands).

The bigger problem I have is, the downgrade to 20” inch rims instead of 18’s. Why not go to Costco (if you have one near you) and get a new set of Defenders on the 18” rims? I think they have a $100 bucks off right now for a set of 4.
Mainly because I can get this used set and wheels for $400. Could probably sell the wheels later for close to that.
 
Mainly because I can get this used set and wheels for $400. Could probably sell the wheels later for close to that.

Do you have the date code on the used tires? At $400, it does seem like a deal, but not if the tires are getting old.

Still, the 18” tires will have a much better (compliant and comfortable) ride, and I would spend the extra coin just for that.
 
Do you have the date code on the used tires? At $400, it does seem like a deal, but not if the tires are getting old.

Still, the 18” tires will have a much better (compliant and comfortable) ride, and I would spend the extra coin just for that.
No, that was one of the things I was going to ask him about.
I may still get something for the 18s though. Running out of time to decide.
 
No, that was one of the things I was going to ask him about.
I may still get something for the 18s though. Running out of time to decide.

That’s a tough one for sure haha. Regardless (if you go with the 20’s or 18’s), the defenders are really great street tires. That’s my vote if you are not doing any heavy off roading.
 
That’s a tough one for sure haha. Regardless (if you go with the 20’s or 18’s), the defenders are really great street tires. That’s my vote if you are not doing any heavy off roading.

I had 275/55R20 Michelin LTX MS on my 2017 Yukon and they were fantastic tires in all conditions. Could barely tell they were 20’s over my 18’s now.
 

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