Thread: 7.5 16 tyres 2022…

Well.
Want to get some 7.5x16 tyres for my ex military Lightweight. Not quite original as they did come on a smaller tyre. But they’ll also suit my No5 trailer etc., and stash of spares though, so metric change not really considered at the moment.
There are posts on AULRO re 7.5x16 but getting dated now.
Currently the Lightweight has emerged from the shed shod in possibly 20yo ex-army/mines Michelin Steel Treks. Proudly “Made in Australia”... Probably pushing it…
I see that perhaps Michelin XZL are still made?? Unsure and cannot see prices. They appeal…
I would like a 10-ply (or more but 14 too much) type tyre, but something with tough sidewalls that, from experience, you smell burning before you know you have a flat. Well, with my FFR heavy duty springs, a shopping trolley has a softer ride! (The main burning smells I react to are electrical insulation, rubber, engine oil, gearbox oil, clutch/brake lining and evaporated coolant).
Running standard Australian military tubed-type rims. If I have to go Dunlop I’ll consider it. But they seem weaker than what I’d like although the appearance is “authentic”. Price is ok too and vehicle isn’t heavy.
My Lightweight has an “upped” transfer gear set of 12%, so it’ll sit on 90-100Kph - hence kind of wary of MRF cross ply types, but they do appeal (although I see on one site “for split rims only”… really? Is the bead unable to pull over a solid rim??). Also if they are R1 “tractor tyre” rated, can they be used at speed on the road?
Have run “Bridgestone V Steel All Steel” in the past with success, Duelers, etc.
So, suggestions? Don’t mind a bit of noise. Don’t want Chinese branded. Open minded to tread pattern but do want an ex military look, without going full bar tread!
Thoughts? Who makes what these days? Experiences?
This may be a good “2022 availability” thread, I hope.

Ahh, scrub driving around Newman explains why you wanted 10 ply.
Radials won't stand up to sidewall damage in the scrub like Bias Plies will, so theres your conundrum.
Even 6 ply bias plies will be more rugged than radials which are typically 3 ply sidewalls.
And radial sidewalls tend to bulge unless you get tall skinny van radials but they don't have aggressive tread.

I know you dont want chinese but I tried some Cheap Chinese Van radials for my lightweight and they did perform really well in all conditions, even mud, but took them off after one season as they didn't really give me any more battery range.

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