Quote
OK thanks for the input guys.

Now I have a few questions, though.

All of these comments "seem" related to the added rotational weight, higher inertial resistance etc. big tires = more work. You're hosed on that regardless.
But isn't that irrelevant (independent) of the gearing? All the gearing does is change where in that rotational speed you put the RPMs, and have to shift... right? I can see how once you are moving, the gearing sets where you are in the power band at a certain speed. E.g. you don't want to find yourself at only 1.5k when doing 35 mph... no power.
But if the relative relationships change correctly, so that you have, say, 2500 RPM at that same speed of 35mph, then why would it matter what gear you are in?

And why hard on clutches? Please explain.

It's bad on the clutch, because now it will be like starting out in 2nd gear all the time.
Basically, the gears compensate for the size, and somewhat, the rolling resistance, (if you get lower gear like a 5.29 instead of a 4.88 with 35's) with a bit higher rev's.
Remember that hill you used to climb in 3rd? now it's going to be second... remember you're basically cutting off first gear...
I'd do it for alittle while then get gears... but wouldnt want to drive it like that forever.

89 4Runner
3" BL, M/T locks, 33"bfg mt, bilstein, Kayline, tubebumper, toyotafiberglass panels
TBI: Elocker,3.4 w/ORS,b+b,S2Sstg2cams,arias pistons,P+P intake,TRDs/c,URDpullies+7th,downey headers,MAPECU2,WEGO WB, SupraMAF,walboro255,stg4clutch, EPaOo2 sim