1987 Nissan Trucks D21 Tires

The 1987 Nissan Trucks D21 does not use just one tire size across the board. Depending on the sub-model, the primary radial sizes are 195/75R14, 215/75R14, 215/75R15, 235/75R15, and 31X10.50R15. That range covers both 14-inch and 15-inch wheel packages, with the larger sizes appearing on 4x4 applications.

The first step is matching the tire to the exact sub-model and actual wheel diameter on the truck. A 14-inch metric radial and a 15-inch 4x4 fitment are not interchangeable choices, even when the truck body looks similar. If the truck has been modified over the years, check the wheel stamping and measure the mounted wheel before selecting tires.

The 1987 Nissan Trucks D21 uses either a 14-inch or 15-inch rim, depending on the specific sub-model and tire size. The 195/75R14 and 215/75R14 fitments are 14-inch applications, while 215/75R15, 235/75R15, and 31X10.50R15 are built for 15-inch wheels.

Wheel diameter is the first fitment check because the tire bead must match the rim exactly. After confirming diameter, compare the wheel width to the tire’s recommended range when that specification is available, especially on the wider 15-inch truck sizes. That matters even more if the D21 no longer has its original wheels or has been set up for a different use.

The correct size depends on the sub-model. The (DRW), Base, and E 4x2 use 195/75R14; the SE 4x2 uses 215/75R14; the E 4x4 and XE 4x4 use 215/75R15; and the SE 4x4 uses either 235/75R15 or 31X10.50R15. All of these are radial fitments.

That means the sub-model badge and the truck’s wheel setup matter more than appearance alone. A 4x4 version may use a larger 15-inch fitment, while a 4x2 version can stay on a 14-inch size. If the truck has had wheel, suspension, or trim changes over time, verify what is actually on the vehicle instead of relying only on the body style.

Start with the correct primary size for the exact 1987 Nissan Trucks D21 sub-model, then confirm whether the truck uses a 14-inch or 15-inch wheel. From there, the real differences are in sidewall style, tire series, rim-width compatibility, load capacity, and whether the truck is being kept road-oriented or used in a more utility-focused role.

A 195/75R14 or 215/75R14 setup points toward passenger-style radial choices, while 215/75R15, 235/75R15, and 31X10.50R15 may call for a more truck-minded decision. Whitewall radials can support a traditional presentation, while all-terrain raised-letter tires create a different look and purpose. Matching the tire to both the truck’s fitment and intended use will narrow the options quickly.

Sidewall choices for the 1987 Nissan Trucks D21 include narrow whitewall, wide whitewall, raised black letter, and raised white letter styling, depending on the tire size. The 14-inch and many 15-inch metric sizes have several whitewall options, while the more truck-oriented all-terrain choices appear with lettered sidewalls.

That sidewall choice affects the truck’s visual character as much as the tread itself. A whitewall radial suits a more traditional or restoration-oriented presentation, while an all-terrain with lettered sidewalls gives the D21 a more functional 4x4 look. The important point is to choose the style only after confirming the correct size, since not every sidewall treatment is offered in every fitment.

Tires for the 1987 Nissan Trucks D21 are available from Coker Classic, American Classic, BFGoodrich, Maxxis, Tornel, and Travelstar. Brand availability depends on the size, with some fitments offering a broad mix of classic-style whitewall radials and others, such as 31X10.50R15, focusing on a single truck-oriented option.

Brand choice should come after the fitment decision, not before it. Once the correct size is confirmed, compare each brand’s sidewall style, tire series, rim-width specification, and load figure where those details matter to the truck’s use. That approach is more useful than trying to pick a brand first and then forcing the tire to match the truck.

A period-style 1987 Nissan Trucks D21 tire choice starts with the exact size used by the truck’s sub-model, then narrows to the sidewall and series that best match the look you want. The available range includes several narrow and wide whitewall radial options in 195/75R14, 215/75R14, 215/75R15, and 235/75R15.

That gives a restoration-oriented owner room to shape the truck’s presentation without changing the basic fitment. A stock-appearing road truck may call for a clean whitewall radial, while a 4x4 can lean toward a more truck-like tire. When exact originality matters, compare the tire choice against period photos, marque references, or surviving examples of the same D21 configuration.

On the 1987 Nissan Trucks D21, the primary fitments are radial across the full size range, so the appearance differences come less from changing construction and more from choosing the right radial type. A whitewall radial creates a much different visual effect than an all-terrain radial with raised lettering, even when both are correct in basic size.

That matters on a restored truck because the tire helps define whether the finished vehicle reads as a clean street pickup, a utility truck, or a 4x4 with more off-road character. Matching the tire’s sidewall style and overall presentation to the sub-model is usually more important here than chasing a construction change that the fitment does not require.

Yes, modifications can change tire fitment on a 1987 Nissan Trucks D21 even when the chosen size is one of the correct primary sizes for the model range. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, different offset, suspension changes, or body trimming can all affect how a tire sits and clears the truck during turning and suspension movement.

That is especially important on the larger 15-inch 4x4 sizes such as 235/75R15 and 31X10.50R15. A truck that has been lowered, lifted, or fitted with non-stock wheels should be checked for steering clearance, fender clearance, and wheel compatibility before new tires are installed. Even a familiar size deserves verification when the chassis setup has changed.

Before driving a 1987 Nissan Trucks D21 on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct diameter and condition, confirm the tires are mounted in the proper size, and check inflation carefully. It is also wise to look over the truck’s steering and suspension components so the new tires are not being asked to compensate for worn mechanical parts.

A short road test should include listening for rubbing, feeling for vibration, and confirming the truck tracks properly through turns and braking. Collector and low-use trucks also deserve a close look at valve stems, spare tire condition, and any signs of air loss after the first few days. Catching those issues early helps protect both the tires and the truck.

Tires on a 1987 Nissan Trucks D21 should be inspected regularly, not just when the truck is due for service. A quick visual check before use is smart on any older pickup, and a more careful inspection should include tread wear, sidewall cracking, cuts, bulges, and pressure condition, especially if the truck sits for long periods between drives.

Storage habits matter as much as mileage on an older D21. Tires that look fine at a glance can still age, lose air, or develop condition issues while parked. Keeping the truck out of prolonged sunlight and away from heat and ozone sources helps, but routine inspection is still essential. Any change in ride feel, steering response, or visible condition deserves prompt attention.