18" to a 15" wheel
JK Newbie
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 44
Likes: 0
From: Buffalo, New York
I don't think that this is a stupid question. Every part of the suspension has some effect.
Yes, rim size affects ride, the only question is by how much.
The effect may be small and many times not actually felt.
Tires twist whenever the vehicle turns. A taller sidewall means more twist. This results in a bit "mushier" steering, which, if felt, it would be on roads (and typically at higher speeds) rather than offroad.
This also depends on how pliable are the the sidewalls, and on tire pressure -- and these two have a greater effect than sidewall size.
Still, I expect the drastic change that the OP talked about, from tires on 18" to tires on 15", to change the steering feel.
As for the weight saved by smaller rims, it is more or less "gained" back by the increased tire weight.
17" is a good average for tire availability, range of tire prices, and looks.
Usually, they will be easier to balance vs smaller rims with taller sidewalls.
Yes, rim size affects ride, the only question is by how much.
The effect may be small and many times not actually felt.
Tires twist whenever the vehicle turns. A taller sidewall means more twist. This results in a bit "mushier" steering, which, if felt, it would be on roads (and typically at higher speeds) rather than offroad.
This also depends on how pliable are the the sidewalls, and on tire pressure -- and these two have a greater effect than sidewall size.
Still, I expect the drastic change that the OP talked about, from tires on 18" to tires on 15", to change the steering feel.
As for the weight saved by smaller rims, it is more or less "gained" back by the increased tire weight.
17" is a good average for tire availability, range of tire prices, and looks.
Usually, they will be easier to balance vs smaller rims with taller sidewalls.
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 298
Likes: 0
From: Manassas, VA
I don't have any problems with the calipers. Steel wheels usually do, but many alloys fit fine. Discount Tire Direct has a good deal of 15" wheels that will fit without issues.
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JK Super Freak
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 1,695
Likes: 3
From: Texas
Think about 17" wheels, with a 35 (and larger - you know it will happen) you will need to start thinking about braking power increases, specially if/when you regear. I really don't think you can put a larger set of brakes on with 15s and maybe not 16s.
Thread Starter
JK Newbie
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: Buffalo,NY
thinking and planning to do on my tire situation. The one thing I do know is the 18's gotta go.
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 222
Likes: 0
From: Nashville, TN
I too am running 35's on 15x8 wheels. I love the look. I have had then for over 2 years and they ride just fine and are amazing when aired down. My only complaint was when I bent my tie rod and had a hard time finding a beefier one. I ended up going back to factory though I think the rock krawler tie rod has been proven to fit.
I also tend to find it harder to clean the inside of the wheel after offroading as the tolerance between the caliper and rim is really tight. Not a big deal though.
I did it to save money when I had to replace tires.
I also tend to find it harder to clean the inside of the wheel after offroading as the tolerance between the caliper and rim is really tight. Not a big deal though.
I did it to save money when I had to replace tires.
