How do I know if I'm gonna need wheel spacers. Looking to upgrade to steel wheels and 35x12.5x17 tires. I have 2011 Rubicon unlimited with 3.5 RC lift. Right now factory tires (255x70x17) and factory wheels. Just need to know if I need spacers before I purchase tires and wheels.

 

If you purchase wheels with 4.5" back spacing you will not need spacers. The factory wheels are about 6", then you'll need 1.5" spacers.

 

The only reason you would want to run a spacer is if you run an oversized tire on the factory wheel. Otherwise, find a wheel with the proper backspacing, as mentioned.

 

Thanks for the info. Is discount tire pretty knowledgeable on that?

 

Factory wheel BS is 6.25 and a set of 1.25 spacers will fit 12.5 wide tires.

 

On road 4.5" back spacing should be enough. offroad aired down at full lock you might still rub in some spots. I was rubbing on my sway bar at full lock with 315/75/16's with 4.5" back spacing. Just added a 1.5" spacer last night. You could always adjust your steering stops to fix this as well