Complete Guide to Military Truck Tires: MICHELIN XZL vs Goodyear MV/T
When selecting military truck tires for HMMWV, MRAP, or other tactical vehicles, understanding tire specifications, load ratings, and applications is crucial. AAA1 Surplus provides this comprehensive guide to help you choose the right military-grade tires.
Popular Military Truck Tire Sizes and Applications
MICHELIN XZL 1400R20
Specifications:
• Size: 1400R20
• Ply Rating: 18 PLY (J Rated)
• Height: 48 inches
• Width: 14 inches
• Load Rating: Extremely Heavy Duty
• Applications: Medium military trucks, cargo vehicles
The MICHELIN XZL 1400R20 is designed for medium to heavy military applications. Its 18-ply construction provides excellent durability for cargo transport and logistics vehicles.
MICHELIN XZL 1600R20
Specifications:
• Size: 1600R20
• Ply Rating: 22 PLY (M Rated)
• Height: 53 inches
• Width: 17.2 inches
• Load Rating: Maximum Heavy Duty
• Applications: Heavy military trucks, tank transporters
The largest in the MICHELIN XZL series, the 1600R20 is built for the heaviest military applications including tank transport and heavy cargo operations.
Goodyear MV/T 395/85R20
Specifications:
• Size: 395/85R20
• Ply Rating: 14 PLY (G Rated)
• Height: 46 inches
• Width: 15.5 inches
• Tread: All-Terrain Military
• Applications: HMMWV, light tactical vehicles
The Goodyear MV/T (Military Vehicle/Truck) 395/85R20 is specifically designed for tactical vehicles requiring excellent off-road traction and durability.
HMMWV and Light Tactical Vehicle Tires
For HMMWV (High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle) applications, the most common tire sizes are:
37x12.50R16.5 Military Tires
- Goodyear Wrangler MT 37/12.50-16.5 - Mud terrain tire for extreme off-road conditions
- Goodyear Wrangler MTR 37/12.50-16.5 - Military Truck Radial with enhanced sidewall protection
- BF Goodrich Baja 37/12.50-16.5 - Desert and all-terrain military tire
Military Wheel Compatibility
HMMWV Wheels
Standard HMMWV wheels are 16.5" x 8.25" with a 12-bolt pattern. These wheels are designed specifically for the 37x12.50R16.5 tire size and provide optimal performance for tactical vehicle operations.
MRAP Wheels
MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicles typically use larger wheels:
- 20" x 10" steel wheels with 10 x 335mm bolt pattern
- Compatible with larger military tires like 395/85R20
- Designed for maximum protection and load capacity
Tire Construction and Military Standards
Military truck tires must meet stringent DoD (Department of Defense) specifications:
Ply Ratings Explained
- 14 PLY (G Rated): Light to medium military applications
- 18 PLY (J Rated): Heavy duty military cargo vehicles
- 22 PLY (M Rated): Maximum load capacity for tank transporters
Military Tire Features
- Run-flat capability for tactical situations
- Enhanced sidewall protection against debris
- Multi-directional tread patterns for all-terrain use
- Temperature resistance for extreme climates
- Chemical resistance for contaminated environments
Choosing the Right Military Tire
Vehicle Weight Considerations
Select tire ply rating based on your vehicle's gross weight:
- Under 15,000 lbs: 14 PLY tires (G Rated)
- 15,000 - 25,000 lbs: 18 PLY tires (J Rated)
- Over 25,000 lbs: 22 PLY tires (M Rated)
Terrain Considerations
- Highway/Mixed Use: MICHELIN XZL series for durability
- All-Terrain: Goodyear MV/T for balanced performance
- Extreme Off-Road: Wrangler MT or BF Goodrich Baja
Shop Military Truck Tires at AAA1 Surplus
Located in Avery, Texas, AAA1 Surplus specializes in authentic military truck tires and surplus equipment. We stock MICHELIN XZL, Goodyear MV/T, and other military-grade tires for all tactical vehicle applications.
Contact us: 903-949-7712 | info@aaa1surplus.com
Address: 150 US Hwy 82 west, Avery Texas 75554
Browse Our Military Tire Inventory →
Military Tire Maintenance Tips
- Check tire pressure regularly - military tires require specific PSI ratings
- Inspect for combat damage or debris embedded in tread
- Rotate tires according to military vehicle maintenance schedules
- Store spare tires in controlled temperature environments
- Replace tires showing sidewall cracking or tread wear beyond military standards
Frequently Asked Questions
Are military surplus tires legal for civilian use?
Yes, military surplus tires are legal for civilian use and offer exceptional durability for off-road and heavy-duty applications.
What's the difference between military and civilian tire construction?
Military tires feature heavier ply construction, run-flat capabilities, and are built to DoD specifications for extreme conditions.
Can I mount military tires on civilian wheels?
Military tires can be mounted on civilian wheels if the bolt pattern, offset, and load rating match your vehicle's specifications.
About AAA1 Surplus
AAA1 Surplus has been serving military vehicle enthusiasts, contractors, and government agencies with authentic military truck tires and surplus equipment. Our Texas location provides easy access for customers throughout the southern United States.
We specialize in:
- MICHELIN XZL military truck tires in all sizes
- Goodyear MV/T and Wrangler military tires
- HMMWV and MRAP wheels and accessories
- Military surplus equipment and parts
- Expert consultation on military vehicle tire selection