Dilemna on tires…

[nanook12]

I’ve only put 10K on the OEM Falken AT3, they are a good tire (snow and rain), no complaints…23 JTRD

however the last BFGs (KO2s), I put on my Dodge 2500, diesel, all leaked! The Coopers I replaced them with - on the same wheels, have never leaked! I won’t be buying any more BFGs

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[Brucewillys]

Hey folks,
I really hate posting this, there’s a million threads out there on the subject. I’m debating between these 3 specific tires and sizes as far as being cost effective and needs. So, new MojaveX which will have 2 inch AEV lift. Occasional trail/dirt road, mostly mall crawler.No towing at this time. Not looking to regear at this time. Want 3p snow rated.

My dilemma on these 3 is that the 37’ KO2’s weigh 4-4.5 pounds less than either of the 35’s in this list. So in actuality, the rolling mass would be less.

I’d like to stay on topic with these 3 tires if possible. TIA

Ok my opinions, based on friends use and personal use. You will not be happy with the goodyear, compared to the other two they are a severe downgrade. The Falken A/T4's are a downgrade from the original Falken AT3's. So for me the pick based on quality and traction alone I'd say the KO2's. It's too bad your set on these three because Toyo, Nitro, and Mickey all make better all terrains. Good luck, not bad prices.

 

[YJGUY]

Personally, I hate KO2's. They are extremely noisey once they start to wear out. The 33" KO2's on my 4Runner are louder than the 37" Nitto Trail Grappler mud tires on my JL. When I replace my 37's in a couple of years I'll probably go for a Nitto All Terrain like the Terra Grappler G3. Solid tires and easy to balance.

 

[ColoMojaveX]

Ok my opinions, based on friends use and personal use. You will not be happy with the goodyear, compared to the other two they are a severe downgrade. The Falken A/T4's are a downgrade from the original Falken AT3's. So for me the pick based on quality and traction alone I'd say the KO2's. It's too bad your set on these three because Toyo, Nitro, and Mickey all make better all terrains. Good luck, not bad prices.

Im trying to spread my funds around to everything else on the list for this project. That’s why I chose those 3. If it wasn’t a concern I’d probably go with the Mickey Baja boss’s. They are a great tire. Anyway, I’m mostly decided on the Falkens, I only have experience with the A/T’s so I won’t know the difference between the AT4W and the AT3.

 

[FLY-DOG]

buy what works best for you, who cares about a few pounds, it's not going to make a difference. You truck is 5000 lbs plus....

Going much heavier, for instance (31 inch to 37 inch tires) on stock suspension without upgrades can have a negative affect, Reducing unsprung weight (e.g., via lighter alloy wheels, lighter brake rotors, or aftermarket suspension parts) improves ride quality, handling, traction, and responsiveness because the suspension can better control wheel movement over bumps without fighting extra mass.

 

[rharr]

Going much heavier, for instance (31 inch to 37 inch tires) on stock suspension without upgrades can have a negative affect, Reducing unsprung weight (e.g., via lighter alloy wheels, lighter brake rotors, or aftermarket suspension parts) improves ride quality, handling, traction, and responsiveness because the suspension can better control wheel movement over bumps without fighting extra mass.

You could install skate board wheels on a jeep with stock suspension and not gain any improvements.

 

[FLY-DOG]

Im trying to spread my funds around to everything else on the list for this project. That’s why I chose those 3. If it wasn’t a concern I’d probably go with the Mickey Baja boss’s. They are a great tire. Anyway, I’m mostly decided on the Falkens, I only have experience with the A/T’s so I won’t know the difference between the AT4W and the AT3.

The Falken Wildpeak AT4W (often just called AT4W) is the newer successor to the Wildpeak AT3W (commonly referred to as AT3 or AT3W), released around 2023-2024 as an updated all-terrain tire line. Both are popular rugged all-terrain tires with 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) severe snow ratings, making them excellent for mixed on-road/off-road use, including winter conditions.Here's a breakdown of the key differences based on manufacturer updates, reviews, and comparisons:

• Tread Design and Pattern
  The AT4W features a redesigned, more aggressive tread with deeper and wider grooves, staggered shoulder blocks, and a more modern layout for improved grip in mud, dirt, rocks, and loose terrain. The AT3W has a more traditional C/Z-shaped pattern that's solid but generally considered slightly less aggressive in some off-road scenarios (though still highly capable).
• On-Road Performance
  The AT4W is generally quieter, smoother, and better for highway/daily driving with improved dry/wet handling and ride comfort. Many users and tests note reduced road noise compared to the AT3W, which can be a bit louder due to its tread.
• Wet and Snow Traction
  The AT4W often edges out with better wet performance and refined snow traction thanks to an updated silica compound and tread refinements. Both excel in snow (3PMSF certified), but the AT4W is positioned as an improvement in mixed weather.
• Durability and Sidewalls
  The AT4W incorporates proprietary 3-ply DURASPEC sidewall technology (on many sizes) for greater puncture resistance and off-road toughness. This makes it stronger overall, especially for towing or heavier loads, though it contributes to added weight.
• Weight
  The AT4W is typically heavier (e.g., 1-6+ lbs more per tire depending on size/load range), due to the reinforced construction. This can slightly impact fuel economy, acceleration, or ride feel on lighter vehicles, but it's a trade-off for durability.
• Load/Speed Ratings and Warranty
  The AT4W often has higher load ratings (better for towing/heavy-duty use), while the AT3W may have a higher speed rating in some sizes. Treadwear warranty is improved on the AT4W: up to 65,000 miles (P-metric) or 60,000 miles (LT sizes), versus around 50-55,000 miles on the AT3W.
• Price and Availability
  The AT4W tends to cost more as the current flagship model, though the AT3W remains available (sometimes at a discount) and is still highly regarded.

In summary, the AT4W is the upgraded version with better overall balance—stronger off-road capability, improved on-road manners, longer warranty, and enhanced durability—while the AT3W remains a proven, slightly lighter/more affordable option that's still excellent (and preferred by some for its tread aggression or lower weight in certain sizes). The "better" choice depends on your priorities: more off-road focus and toughness → AT4W; value and lighter weight → AT3W.If you're shopping for a specific vehicle/size, check current specs on sites like Falken's official page, Tire Rack, or Discount Tire for exact details.

 

[Wheelin98TJ]

Ok my opinions, based on friends use and personal use. You will not be happy with the goodyear, compared to the other two they are a severe downgrade. The Falken A/T4's are a downgrade from the original Falken AT3's. So for me the pick based on quality and traction alone I'd say the KO2's. It's too bad your set on these three because Toyo, Nitro, and Mickey all make better all terrains. Good luck, not bad prices.

I have Goodyears Ultraterrains and have never had any issues with traction. They're great on slick roads.

 

[Sigz]

I am a fan of Toyo Open County At3 load range C (35x12.5x17).

Not only are they three peaked rated, they are only 59# per tire. Been super happy with them here in snowy / icy Wisconsin.

 

[daveb]

My last rubicon came with BFGs, hated them. Put Nitto Ridge Grapplers on it they did everything right traded it in with 65k on the tires and they still looked good.

 

[Snowcavemike]

Hey folks,
I really hate posting this, there’s a million threads out there on the subject. I’m debating between these 3 specific tires and sizes as far as being cost effective and needs. So, new MojaveX which will have 2 inch AEV lift. Occasional trail/dirt road, mostly mall crawler.No towing at this time. Not looking to regear at this time. Want 3p snow rated.

My dilemma on these 3 is that the 37’ KO2’s weigh 4-4.5 pounds less than either of the 35’s in this list. So in actuality, the rolling mass would be less.

I’d like to stay on topic with these 3 tires if possible. TIA

I would recommend the 17 " KO3. I've had them on for 5k miles. The are quieter than the ko2's. Better wear. Falkins are good. Good year not so much. The new ones might wear better than the old ones. I’ve driven on all 3 of your choices, older versions.

 

[CVrubi]

Here’s my personal experience for what it’s worth. The stock Falken M/T’s that came on my 2022 Rubicon were great but I wanted larger tires so I bought 35x11.50x17 Nitto Trail Grapplers because I liked the factory wheels and they were in spec. After a year or so I realized I needed a wider tire/wheel combo so I purchased Black Rhino Abrams 17/9.5 -12 offset wheels and Nitto 35x12.50x17 tries. Great set up. Better drivability and control with this set up. However, I feel the 35” tires are too small for a Gladiator and think it needs 37” tires to balance out the look. The truck drives great on 35’s so now it comes down to do I want to spend the money on new tires, gears… or just let it be. If you want 37’s now as you listed on the BFG’s get them or you may find yourself spending twice like I have. Also, I think the 11.50 tires are too narrow for the wider Rubicon/Mojave. Also, I’ve had BFG’s, Goodyear and Falken on my previous trucks/Jeeps and of those I’d take the Falken‘s. I just love the look and feel of the Nitto Ridge Grapplers. Just my opinion. Good luck.

 

[Wheelin98TJ]

I would recommend the 17 " KO3. I've had them on for 5k miles. The are quieter than the ko2's. Better wear. Falkins are good. Good year not so much. The new ones might wear better than the old ones. I’ve driven on all 3 of your choices, older versions.

There is no older version of the Goodyear Ultraterrain.

 

[NC_Overland]

He’s speaking of brand recognition. Once you get burned by a company, you’re hesitant to buy from them again. For instance, I’m hesitant to buy a Goodyear or Cooper tire because of terrible previous experiences. It works the opposite way as well.

 

[Wheelin98TJ]

He’s speaking of brand recognition. Once you get burned by a company, you’re hesitant to buy from them again. For instance, I’m hesitant to buy a Goodyear or Cooper tire because of terrible previous experiences. It works the opposite way as well.

I was confused because the discussion is about 3 specific tires.

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