I have read and researched and keep getting confusing information. New 15 jku, starting build step by step. Going to start with wheels while deciding on 2-3 inch lift. Will be daily driver and want 315s with lift. Can or can I not run 17x9 with 4.75 back spacing (-5 offset)without rubbing. (Pro comps or ae alloys) I have seen some say yes and some say no.


Thanks in advance for thoughts and experiences.

 

I've been kicking this same thing around, I'm planning on ordering wheels and tires in the next few months. The wheels I want are 4.75 back spacing, but all the lifts say you need 4.5. They all also say you are fine with the stock wheels and 1.5 in. spacer. However, if you do the math (stock wheels 6.25 back space -1.5 spacer = 4.75) 4.75 shouldn't be a problem. Unless something comes out that just flat out says no way 4.75 will work, than I am going with it. I've seen a lot of picks of lifted Jeeps with 17 in. Method wheels, which are almost all 4.75, and nobody saying they are buying different wheels.

Hope this helps,

Happy Jeeping!

 

Assume you have 35x12.50's (or equivalents) from two different mfgs'. You mount them, throw them under your jeep, and then you break out the tape measure.

What happens when you measure tire A at 33.5"x11", and Tire B at 35"x13"? Same rims, same backspacing, different clearance results. How about coil lifts? Two different mfg's again, both say they are 2.5". On one jeep it measures out to a 2" height gain, the other jeep gets 4".

See where there is some grey area involved? And that is just two examples of why some people might be ok with a particular backspace when another person is not. Could be an axle that is offcenter. Links that are mounted outside instead of inside. A bunch of added weight instead of bone stock. Etc, etc, etc.

The 4.5" backspace you see is a general guideline, nothing more.

 

4.75 should be fine with a moderate lift and tire combo. I have a 2.5 inch lift with 4.5 backspace on 315/70r17 MTZs on mine, and I have plenty of room at full stuff and full lock (I don't have fenders though). If it does rub, you can always put washers on the steering box to limit the steering arc.

 

Thanks for all the input!!! I just didn't understand how a .25 inch could make that much difference, especially since it's a quarter inch away from frame.


Thanks again!!!!