Ask Joe: Project XJ = Tires (again)
As a project gets built, changes happen. It’s a fact. And as our XJ build progressed, I realized the Rubicon wheels and tires I had were just too small. Not only was the size an issue (it matters, I guess), but with the Bushwacker Fender Flairs, the wheel offset was off as well. So I went to see the professionals at Baxter Auto Parts.
I had an idea in mind as to what I wanted: a purpose-built off-road tire that would work well on the street. We ended up with the Mickey Thompson Baja MTZ Radial. They have full 6 ply tread with a 3 ply sidewall, which is more than strong enough for what the XJ will throw at them. They also have an aggressive side lug that makes them even better on rocks and when airing down. The tread design has a aggressive lug, with decent voids which should be great for self cleaning, and traction. They are a Radial tire, which should give us good mileage wear with the light XJ!