I am totally confused about wheels and tires. I have me a '11 Sahara Unlimited, and it is time for tires. While I am at it, I think I want to get wheels as well.

This I where the confusion comes in. I have been told that 285/70/17 will fit with no rubbing and no lift as long as the wheels have 4.5in of back spacing.

Several people have said this would work. But few have also said it will not.

What's your thoughts?

Keep in mind I do not want to do lift.

Thanks for the help!

-Evan

 

You will rub a little. Consider the stock back spacing is 6.25". You want less to push the wheel out further. To add more confusion, you need to consider offset as well. Short answer, you will rub at full turn or heavy articulation. If you drive mostly on road with occasional light off roading, you'll be fine.

 

should work... might have to trim the air dam if you rub at full lock

 

x2 on what Jeepstin said. You'll be fine with everyday driving.

If you're going to go off road, I'd suggest trimming the pinch seam and front leveling kit.

 

Evan631- yes, that tire size and stock wheels with stock suspension will work with little if any rub. Adjust your steer stops or just buy wheel spacers. I ran 275x70x18 Cooper STT's (skinny 33") on stock rims for a year with no spacers: adjusted steer stops for control arm rub. Later I added Spidertrax spacers for wider track ( helps in cornering ) and anticipating a lift.

Just know that going to a more aggressive tire will affect your mpg. My choice of moving from a 32" all-terrain tire to a 33" mud lost 2 mpg.

 

Keep an eye on the Classifieds section. You can pick up some used spacers pretty cheap. I saw a set of four Spidertrax spacers for $100 the other day. With a factory wheel, that should keep any major rubbing at bay.

 

Thanks everyone! This is my daily driver, mixed highway/street. During the summers I take it on the beach. No heavy off-roading.

I will continue my research...thanks again!

-Evan