Thread: What tyres will actually be ok to fit onto a series 3 SWB

G'day

If they are 205R16 and came off a Toyota, they are probably from a HiLux and so are a relatively small tyre. They are slightly larger than the 600x16 cross plys that were fitted to Series II(a) SWB and are the same size fitted to the original Range Rover. Later Series III were fitted with 7.50x16 cross plys and these are quite a bit taller (you need a different speedo).

If you have the original 4 cylinder engine, the 205 will work quite well and even better if you have overdrive. If you have a holden or some other engine, then you are probably better off with the taller 7.50x16 as these will give you more top speed for little low down loss, - the taller tyre will also be better in sand and mud as they have a longer footprint.

I have 7.50x16 radials on my Series IIa diesel (original LR engine) and with overdrive I can cruise at 100kph (and about 95d on the flat. As soon as a hill appears, down we go through the ratios but overall they work well With a petrol 4 cylinder engine they would be ideal.

Michael

i've got a S3 LWB with the original 2.6L Rover 6 cyl running 31x15 Kumho MT's... can't complain at all... still grips fine and handles the sand and mud quite well.