10 years ago, it was easy to still find a 14inch wheel sized 195-215 tire that worked for the 2WD pickups. I had to get some new tires recently and the options for 14in tires are very slim when avoiding the Chinese brands. I was going to purchase the Venezia Classic 787 from Les Schwab, but it turns out they are made in China, and have rather poor performance for the price. I thought I would have to go up to 15 or 16 inch wheels, which I would not want to spend money on, so I kept looking. I previously had two set of the Toyo Eclipse tires in a row, which lasted a long time, but were really average at best in traction and handling. I also thought about the General Altimax rt43 in a 205 size instead of 195 (not offered), but these 2WD trucks do a lot better in the snow and ice with the skinnier tires. I have the Altimax on my van and they are nice, if not a little soft in the sidewalls.

Well, it happens that the Uniroyal Tiger Paw AWP II tires are still being made in a 195-75-14. They actually ride better than any other tire I have used on my 93 pickup since it was new. The dirt, gravel, and wet traction are actually quite impressive, as is the cornering feel. The tread pattern is actually quite open (grabs small rocks like crazy LOL) and is more on the All-Terrain end of an all-season than the more common all-seasons designed more for comfort, noise, and tread life. Toss a couple hundred pounds in the bed for more traction, and carry a set of chains, and these trucks will go anywhere as long as there is ground clearance. The rubber is pretty soft compared to what I was used to before, so I don't expect crazy miles out of them. That's fine with me as long as traction is great.

 

I agree. It is getting hard to find good replacement tires for the stock size. Pretty much the only tire lines that are made in P195/75/R14 are of the "budget" variety.

This is the exact tire I have on my 1987 2WD Truck, with the black walls facing out. They have a greater tread depth (when new) than other tires I was considering. I bought them about 6 years ago and have put about 38,000 miles on them.

I really like the Tiger Paw AWP II. The ride quality is good for a budget tire. The compound is on the soft side, so the tread life isn't as long as others, but it gives better traction, which is what I was looking for.

One thing to note: Always get an alignment done when installing new tires. My front left tire is a little out of alignment and I meant to get an alignment after installing the new tires, but I never got around to it. Other than increased tire wear, I have noticed that the tire's rubber compound hardens up more when a tire isn't aligned properly.

 

are you using light truck or passenger tires?

 

I am using passenger tires.

That is what came on these 2WD Trucks from the factory.

 

i got some good 14's for my '94 subaru wagon not made in china. usa i do believe. i'll have to report back with the specs tomorrow, if it interests thee. i haven't driven it a few years after getting a 1st gen crv