295/70/17 is apprx 33.25" which is a true 33 when mounted

which Nittos did you choose? I have the 295/70/17 Trail Grapplers and they are a HEAVY tire with an E-rated load. There are many 35s out there that will typically measure around 34" when mounted that are lighter and would be much more efficient than the Nittos for a DD in my opinion.

I definitly regret not going with a lighter 35" tire -- now its to the point that i'm planning to skip the 35" all together and start aiming at 37s

good luck with your choice!

 

Ok, well the problem with 35's is that my jeep has 3.21 gears. It's a '12 two door with manual transmission, so it probably would be bearable, but not ideal.

 

How wide are the wheels?? 9.00" wide??

 

Either going with 17x8 or 17x9, depends on the tire I choose.