Military Tire Size & Rim Guide
for Run-Flat Machine Compatibility
Understand why tire size, rim type, and wheel assembly data are critical for selecting the right run-flat tire changing machine.
Why Tire and Rim Data Matters
Before selecting a run-flat tire changing machine, maintenance planners must understand the tire size, rim diameter, rim type, and wheel assembly configuration of every vehicle platform in their fleet.
These parameters directly determine machine clamping capacity, bead-breaking force, working envelope, and safety protocols required for each service operation.
Submitting accurate tire and rim data enables GM Defensive to confirm machine compatibility and recommend the optimal configuration for your operational environment.
Military Tire Size Designations
Understanding the notation systems used across armored and tactical vehicle fleets.
Format: 395/85R20. Width (mm) / aspect ratio / rim diameter (inches). Standard for many NATO tactical tires.
Format: 37×12.50R16.5. Diameter × width, rim diameter. Common on HMMWV and light tactical platforms.
Format: 16.00R20. Section width and rim diameter. Found on heavy tactical and logistics vehicles.
Rim Types and Machine Implications
Rim construction directly affects machine requirements and safety protocols.
Standard automotive-style rim construction. Rare in heavy military applications but found in some light tactical and law enforcement vehicles.
Machine implication: Standard bead-breaking procedure; lower complexity for machine handling.
Rim splits into two halves for tire mounting. Common in HMMWV and similar platforms with run-flat insert systems.
Machine implication: Requires controlled disassembly sequence; insert extraction before rim separation.
Rim assembly with multiple locking rings, flanges, and base components. Standard in MRAP, Stryker, and heavy tactical platforms.
Machine implication: OSHA multi-piece rim safety protocols apply; machine must support controlled sequential disassembly.
Tire and Rim Context by Vehicle Platform
Example tire and rim data across key military vehicle families.
| Vehicle Platform | Tire Size | Rim Type | Rim Diameter | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HMMWV / Humvee | 37×12.50R16.5 | Two-piece, run-flat capable | 16.5" | Dedicated run-flat rim with VFI insert cavity | Details |
| MRAP Family | 16.00R20 / 395/85R20 | Multi-piece, heavy-duty | 20" | Extreme weight assembly, multi-piece hazard protocols | Details |
| Stryker 8×8 | 395/85R20 | Multi-piece | 20" | Heavy insert, 8-wheel service volume considerations | Details |
| JLTV | 16.00R20 | Tactical multi-piece | 20" | Next-generation tactical tire/rim system | Details |
| HEMTT | [INSERT VERIFIED TIRE SIZE] | Multi-piece, large diameter | [VERIFY] | Heavy tactical logistics tire assembly | Details |
Tire and Rim Data Submission Checklist
To enable an accurate compatibility assessment, prepare the following tire and rim data before submitting your review request.
Tire Size and Rim Guide Questions
Tire size determines the clamping range, bead-breaking force, and working envelope required. A machine must accommodate the tire diameter, width, and overall assembly weight to operate safely and effectively.
Single-piece rims are one-piece construction typical of lighter vehicles. Multi-piece rims use locking rings and split flanges to enable tire mounting on heavy tactical platforms. Multi-piece rims require specific safety protocols during disassembly.
Yes. Beadlock systems secure the tire bead to the rim and affect the bead-breaking sequence, force requirements, and tooling needed during tire service. This must be confirmed during compatibility review.
Yes. Submit what you have—vehicle platform, approximate tire size, and any available photos or manual references. GM Defensive engineering can often identify requirements from partial data.
Some armored security vehicles use commercial tire sizes. However, the run-flat insert system, rim modifications, and assembly weight typically exceed commercial specifications, requiring specialized machine capabilities.
Submit Tire and Rim Data for Review
Provide your vehicle tire and rim specifications for a verified compatibility assessment by GM Defensive engineering.