I am sure this has been answered in some way, shape or form in the past, so I will apologize in advance...I just can't get a good answer. I just bought an 09 JK Sahara with the 18" wheels. I usually drive straight to the tire shop to get rid of the stock tires, but I was blown away by the prices for an 18" fit. My preference would be to keep the stock wheels for now, so my question(s) are...

How big can I go without getting a lift? I was looking at some 275/70/18's but I'm not convinced they won't rub.

Any recommendations? I usually put BFG AT's on everything I own. If the 275's fit, I am leaning towards the GY Dura Tracs...comments/feedback?

If I buy tires online, how hard is it to find a shop that's willing to do the install even if I didn't buy from them?

All feedback is appreciated and I would love to get some new tires asap!

 

I put a set of GoodYear DuraTracs on my stock Sahara wheels a week or so ago.

https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/show...uraTrac&page=5

I put the tires on before the lift (just what came in first), so those pictures are with a stock suspension with the 275/70-18 size.

Width-wise, they rub a bit at full lock, nothing that a washer on the steering stops won't fix.

Height wise, I've not had any issue at all on the road. I haven't taken it off-road, but looking at it, I'd wager it will rub. Which is why the lift goes on this week.

So it really depends on how you use your Jeep. On-road, you would be fine. Simple off-roading with no rocks, you'd probably be ok, but a 1" spacer wouldn't hurt. If you hit rocks and have to articulate, you'd want a lift.

As for the DuraTracs, so far I am very impressed. They are sooooo quiet. Even with the top down, there's hardly any tire noise. On gravel, grass, and the teeny bit of mud I've had them on, they were flawless. More advanced wheeling will be coming up as soon as I have the lift on.

Good luck!

 

I used to run BFG ATs on my old S-10 ZR2. They were good and lasted forever. Now I've got the Dura Tracs on my JK. They seem to be as good in the rain and better in the mud. The only question is on how long they last. Only had them on for about 3000 miles. Time will tell....



I love this picture!!

 

Start with the FAQ at the top of this Modified JK Tech section. In the Wheels and Tires area, check these...

Q: What is the biggest size tire I can fit on my stock Jeep JK Wrangler?

and

Q: What back spacing will I need on my wheels in order to clear 12.50 wide tires?

That'll point you in the right direction at least.

 

Thanks -nthinuf- I was using the search function and came up empty. Kind of embarrassing seeing my question at the top of the list!


JK North & Cpt Flapjack...those look great. I'm glad you haven't had too much trouble prior to putting the lift on b/c I don't really want to put all the $ into it at the same time.

 

Don't buy Mickey Thompson Baja Claws! They don't last, scary in the snow, and walk from side to side on the rocks. I didn't even get 20,000 out of them.

 

unless ya wanna buy mine!!!

 

The other thing I'd suggest, unless you're totally in love with the stock rims, is to check on prices for 15"/16" wheel & tire combo's. You might be surprised at the price comparison to just the tires for the 18" rims.