The 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max came from an era when compact pickups were expected to be useful, efficient, and easy to live with, whether they spent more time on the jobsite or on back roads. That practical character also means tire selection depends heavily on the exact version of the truck. This Mighty Max spans three primary fitments: 800-14 bias-ply, 185R14 radial, and GR78-15 radial. That opens the door to very different choices in construction, sidewall style, and overall presentation, from traditional whitewall bias-ply options to blackwall and whitewall radial selections. The key is matching the tire to the right sub-model, wheel diameter, and intended use before making any change.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max
The 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max uses three different tire sizes, and the right one depends on the exact sub-model and wheel setup. Two fitments share a 14-inch rim while the GR78-15 radial uses a 15-inch rim, so confirming both the sub-model and the actual wheel diameter should come first. Once that is settled, the decision shifts to construction, sidewall appearance, and whether a traditional or more modern-looking tire best suits the truck.
An 800-14 is a numeric bias-ply size, with the 800 indicating an approximate nominal section width of 8.00 inches and the 14 identifying the wheel diameter. On the Mighty Max, this is the bias-ply fitment and it carries a distinctly traditional look and construction compared with the radial sizes used on other sub-models. Available choices include BFGoodrich, Universal Vintage Tire, and Goodyear, with blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall presentations across series such as Silvertown Classic Bias Ply, Universal Classic Bias Ply, and Custom Super Cushion. It is the size to evaluate when maintaining an earlier-style appearance or when the truck is equipped for this specific bias-ply fitment.
A 185R14 is a Euro-metric radial size, with 185 representing nominal section width in millimeters, R identifying radial construction, and 14 indicating the wheel diameter in inches. For the Mighty Max, this size brings a more modern radial construction than the numeric bias-ply option, while staying on a 14-inch rim. Product choices include Michelin, Phoenix, and Vredestein, with blackwall and narrow whitewall sidewalls and series such as Michelin MXV and Sprint Classic. This is the size to focus on when your truck uses the 14-inch radial setup and you want to compare brand character, sidewall treatment, and rim-width compatibility.
GR78-15 is an alphanumeric radial size, where the letter-based designation identifies the tire's size class, the 78 refers to its profile family, and the 15 marks the wheel diameter. On the Mighty Max, this fitment stands apart because it uses a 15-inch rim rather than the 14-inch wheel shared by the other primary sizes. The radial construction makes wheel confirmation especially important before selection, since this is not simply another version of the 14-inch setup. It is the size to verify for 4x4 applications that use the larger wheel diameter and a distinct tire format.
Sub-model fitment matters on the 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max because tire size changes across the lineup. Some versions use 14-inch wheels, while others move to a 15-inch radial setup, so identifying the exact sub-model helps narrow the correct tire before comparing brands or sidewall styles.
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1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max Base
The 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max Base uses the 800-14 bias-ply fitment. That makes tire selection more about preserving the proper vintage-style size and choosing among blackwall, narrow whitewall, or wide whitewall options than comparing modern radial formats.
The 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max SPX 4x2 uses the 185R14 radial size on a 14-inch wheel. Tire choice here centers on selecting the right radial product, sidewall presentation, and wheel-width compatibility rather than evaluating the 15-inch 4x4 fitment.
The 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max SPX 4x4 uses the GR78-15 radial size. Because this sub-model moves to a 15-inch wheel, confirming the actual wheel diameter is essential before considering any alternatives or comparing it with the 14-inch Mighty Max setups.
The 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max Sport 4x2 also uses the 185R14 radial fitment. That keeps the focus on choosing among available 14-inch radial offerings and deciding whether a blackwall or narrow whitewall presentation better matches the truck's intended look.
The 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max Sport 4x4 shares the GR78-15 radial size with the other 4x4 application. Tire selection begins with the correct 15-inch wheel setup, then moves to checking overall compatibility with the truck's present wheels and stance.
Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max
For the 800-14 primary tire size, four radial-equivalent choices are available. 205R14 is the 80-series metric radial equivalent, P215/75R14 is the P-metric 75-series radial equivalent, P225/70R14 is the P-metric 70-series radial equivalent, and 800R14 is the bias-look radial equivalent. These options span traditional metric sizing, lower-profile P-metric alternatives, and a radial intended to retain a more vintage-style appearance. A 5-7 inch rim-width range is associated with these equivalents, and wheel size, rim width, and vehicle clearance should all be checked before changing from the original size.
Modern Radial Equivalents
205R14
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (800-14)
P215/75R14
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (800-14)
P225/70R14
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (800-14)
800R14
Bias-look Radial Equivalent (800-14)
Important Considerations When Replacing Bias Ply With Radial
Compare overall diameter and section width carefully to ensure proper fit.
Verify recommended rim range (5-7 in) and load needs match your vehicle specifications.
Check fender clearance, steering clearance, and stance before installation.
Consider suspension condition and intended road use when choosing equivalents.
Important Fitment Notes
The tire sizes listed on this page assume factory-standard vehicle configuration. The following modifications may affect tire fitment and are not reflected in this guide:
Suspension changes (lowering, lift kits, spring replacements)
Body alterations (fender modifications, custom bodywork)
If your vehicle has been modified from factory specifications, verify tire clearance before purchase.
Best 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max Tires for Sale
Available Mighty Max tire choices vary widely by fitment, from 800-14 bias-ply offerings by BFGoodrich, Universal Vintage Tire, and Goodyear to 185R14 radials from Michelin, Phoenix, and Vredestein. Across those sizes, buyers can compare blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall presentations along with several distinct tire series.
Tire questions for the 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max usually come down to sub-model fitment, 14-inch versus 15-inch wheels, bias-ply versus radial construction, and choosing the right sidewall or series for the truck's intended look and road use.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max?
The 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max uses three different primary tire sizes: 800-14, 185R14, and GR78-15. The correct size depends on the exact sub-model. Base models use 800-14 bias-ply tires, SPX 4x2 and Sport 4x2 models use 185R14 radials, and SPX 4x4 and Sport 4x4 models use GR78-15 radials.
That means the first step is identifying the truck's exact trim and confirming the wheel diameter already on the vehicle. The two 14-inch fitments are not the same construction, and the 15-inch GR78-15 setup belongs to different sub-models. If the truck has had wheel or suspension changes over the years, checking the current setup before selecting a tire is especially important.
What size rim does a 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max use?
A 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max uses either a 14-inch or 15-inch rim, depending on the sub-model and tire size. The 800-14 bias-ply and 185R14 radial fitments use 14-inch wheels, while the GR78-15 radial fitment uses a 15-inch wheel. Rim diameter is one of the key differences across this Mighty Max lineup.
Wheel diameter should be confirmed before comparing tires because a 14-inch tire and a 15-inch tire are not interchangeable. It also helps to verify wheel width when choosing among available products, especially if the truck now has aftermarket wheels. Matching the tire to the actual rim diameter on the truck is the fastest way to avoid ordering the wrong fitment.
Why does the 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max have more than one tire size?
The 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max has more than one tire size because the fitment changes by sub-model. Base trucks use an 800-14 bias-ply tire, 4x2 SPX and Sport models use 185R14 radials, and 4x4 SPX and Sport models use GR78-15 radials. Those differences include both construction type and wheel diameter.
For a buyer, that means the truck's exact configuration matters more than the model name alone. A Mighty Max owner should confirm whether the truck is a Base, SPX 4x2, SPX 4x4, Sport 4x2, or Sport 4x4 before selecting tires. It is also wise to inspect the wheels currently on the truck, since older pickups are often changed from their original wheel setup.
Bias-Ply & Radial Options
Is 800-14 a bias-ply or radial tire for the 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max?
On the 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max, 800-14 is a bias-ply tire size. It is the primary fitment used on the Base sub-model, while other Mighty Max versions use radial sizes such as 185R14 or GR78-15. That makes 800-14 the traditional construction choice within this particular model range.
Bias-ply construction affects both the truck's appearance and how the tire is selected. Buyers looking at 800-14 should focus on preserving the correct size first, then compare sidewall style, tire series, and wheel compatibility within that fitment. Anyone considering a radial alternative should evaluate the available equivalent sizes carefully instead of assuming every 14-inch radial is the same substitute.
What radial tire sizes are equivalent to 800-14 on a 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max?
Radial equivalents for 800-14 on a 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max include 205R14 as an 80-series metric radial, P215/75R14 as a 75-series P-metric radial, P225/70R14 as a 70-series P-metric radial, and 800R14 as a bias-look radial equivalent. These options all relate to the 800-14 fitment but represent different sizing conventions and profile families.
A 5-7 inch rim-width range is associated with those equivalent options, so wheel width should be part of the decision. It also helps to compare the truck's actual wheel setup and available clearance before changing construction. An equivalent size can be a useful alternative, but it still needs to be checked against the Mighty Max's wheels and present configuration.
What should I check before converting my 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max from bias-ply to radial tires?
A bias-ply to radial conversion on a 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max starts with confirming that the truck actually uses the 800-14 bias-ply fitment. From there, compare the available radial equivalents for that size, including 205R14, P215/75R14, P225/70R14, and 800R14, and confirm that the wheel diameter and rim width suit the alternative being considered.
Beyond size, the practical checks are wheel condition, wheel width, suspension condition, and available steering and fender clearance. It is also smart to confirm that all four tires will match in construction and overall setup. A radial equivalent may be a reasonable alternative, but the truck should be evaluated as it sits rather than relying on size code similarity alone.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a tire for a 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max?
Start by matching the tire to the correct Mighty Max sub-model and wheel diameter. This truck can use 800-14 bias-ply, 185R14 radial, or GR78-15 radial tires, so the first decision is fitment, not brand. Once the right size is confirmed, compare construction type, sidewall appearance, and whether the truck is being kept closer to its original-era style or used more regularly on the road.
Product details matter after size is settled. Some tires differ in rim-width compatibility, load figures, or sidewall treatment, while others are distinguished mainly by series and presentation. A Base truck on 800-14 calls for a different conversation than a 4x2 radial setup. Choosing carefully means looking at how the truck is equipped today, not just how the model name appears on paper.
What sidewall styles are available for 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max tires?
Sidewall choices for the 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall, depending on the tire size and product selected. The 800-14 bias-ply fitment offers the widest appearance spread, while 185R14 radial options are available in blackwall and narrow whitewall. Those differences can change the truck's visual character as much as the tire construction itself.
That makes sidewall style an appearance decision tied to the correct fitment, not a separate shortcut around sizing. A whitewall can give a more vintage presentation, while a blackwall often creates a plainer or more understated look. It helps to settle the sub-model and tire size first, then choose the sidewall treatment that best matches the truck's finish, trim, and intended use.
What brands offer tires for the 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max?
Tires for the 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max are available from several brands across its different fitments. The 800-14 bias-ply size is offered by BFGoodrich, Universal Vintage Tire, and Goodyear, while the 185R14 radial size is available from Michelin, Phoenix, and Vredestein. Brand choice therefore depends partly on which Mighty Max tire size your truck actually uses.
Brand comparison should come after the correct size, construction, and wheel diameter are confirmed. Some brands are tied to specific series or sidewall styles, so the real question is often which product presentation fits the truck and intended use. Once the fitment is right, buyers can compare details such as rim-width range, sidewall appearance, and series character without forcing one brand into the wrong setup.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max?
A period-style 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max starts with using the tire size that belongs to the exact sub-model. Base trucks use 800-14 bias-ply tires, while other versions use radial sizes. That means a restoration-oriented choice is less about picking a universally vintage-looking tire and more about preserving the right fitment and construction character for the specific truck.
After size is confirmed, sidewall style becomes a major part of the visual result. An 800-14 bias-ply in blackwall, narrow whitewall, or wide whitewall will present differently, and 185R14 radial choices also vary in appearance. When exact originality matters, marque references and period photos are useful for narrowing the most appropriate style rather than relying on size alone.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max?
Tire construction changes the visual character of a restored 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max because the truck spans both bias-ply and radial fitments. The 800-14 Base setup uses bias-ply construction, while 185R14 and GR78-15 are radial sizes. Even before sidewall style is considered, that difference affects whether the truck presents with a more traditional or more modern-looking tire profile.
Appearance decisions should stay grounded in the correct size for the sub-model and wheel diameter. A bias-look radial can also enter the conversation for the 800-14 application if a buyer wants radial construction with a more traditional presentation. For a restoration-minded owner, the right choice balances visual intent, current wheel setup, and how the truck will actually be driven.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max. This matters even more because the truck already spans 14-inch and 15-inch factory-style fitments. If the Mighty Max has aftermarket wheels, altered ride height, suspension changes, or body modifications, those changes can influence which tire size clears properly and which rim-width range remains appropriate.
A modified truck should be checked as it sits today, not only by sub-model name. Wheel diameter, wheel width, and steering clearance deserve close attention before moving forward with any tire choice. Even a correct original-era size can become problematic if the truck now has a different wheel setup, so a hands-on fitment check is the safest way to avoid clearance issues.
What should I inspect before driving a 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max on new tires?
Before driving a 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max on new tires, inspect the wheels, lug hardware, valve stems, and the general condition of the suspension and steering components. The tire size and wheel diameter should match the truck's actual setup, whether that is 800-14, 185R14, or GR78-15. Tire pressure should also be set correctly for the tires being installed.
A short road check after installation is worthwhile to catch rubbing, vibration, or unusual steering feel early. It also helps to recheck air pressure and visually confirm that the tire is seated properly and clears the fenders and suspension through steering travel. On an older pickup, fresh tires work best when the rest of the wheel and chassis system is in sound condition.
How should tires on a collector 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max be maintained?
Tires on a collector 1986 Mitsubishi Trucks Mighty Max should be inspected regularly for cracking, flat spotting, cuts, bulges, uneven wear, and slow air loss. That applies whether the truck is running the 800-14 bias-ply fitment or one of the radial sizes. Collector vehicles often accumulate age faster than mileage, so condition matters at least as much as tread depth.
Proper inflation and good storage habits go a long way toward preserving low-use tires. Keeping the truck away from prolonged sun, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps protect the rubber over time. It is also smart to look over the tires before any longer drive, since a Mighty Max that sits for long stretches may reveal issues only when it is put back into use.
