Wheels/backspacing
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JK Newbie
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 10
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From: Beverly MA
Wheels/backspacing
I currently have a stock 2012 jk. It has the 17in wheels. I'm looking to go aftermarket. I'm thinking of going with 16 inch m/t with 33's. Can someone help me with the backspacing? I was hoping to have a wider stance on either side so the tires stick out more then the stock ones. I believe the stock wheels have a backspace of 6.5 inches. Ideas?
JK Super Freak
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 1,086
Likes: 6
From: Orange County, NY
I currently have a stock 2012 jk. It has the 17in wheels. I'm looking to go aftermarket. I'm thinking of going with 16 inch m/t with 33's. Can someone help me with the backspacing? I was hoping to have a wider stance on either side so the tires stick out more then the stock ones. I believe the stock wheels have a backspace of 6.5 inches. Ideas?
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 172
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From: Leo, Indiana
JK Junkie
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 2,818
Likes: 3
From: Folsom, CA
Backspacing only carries meaning relative to your actual rim width.
So, a 17x9 rim with 4.5" backspacing is also called a zero offset wheel. That means the back spacing is in the middle of the wheel's width.
The more negative the offset the more a wheel (and tire) will "suck in" to your jeep. The greater the positive offset, the more they will stick out. Rim height - 16", 17", etc. - won't have any impact on your vehicle's stance.
an 8" wide rim with a 4" backspace, or a 9" wide rime with a 4.5" back space are both a zero offset but one extends 1/2" both inward and outwards on your jeep.
Most people run a 9" wide rim with 4.5" of backspace. This could be a 16" rim as you mention or a 17" rim as referenced in the replies above.
I run a 17x9.5" rim with a 4" back space. That means my wheels (and tires) stick out quite a bit. However, even with this offset, my tires still rub on my frame under compression. I run a 14.50 wide tire.
Sorry if this is confusing.
I hope it helps!
Enjoy!
So, a 17x9 rim with 4.5" backspacing is also called a zero offset wheel. That means the back spacing is in the middle of the wheel's width.
The more negative the offset the more a wheel (and tire) will "suck in" to your jeep. The greater the positive offset, the more they will stick out. Rim height - 16", 17", etc. - won't have any impact on your vehicle's stance.
an 8" wide rim with a 4" backspace, or a 9" wide rime with a 4.5" back space are both a zero offset but one extends 1/2" both inward and outwards on your jeep.
Most people run a 9" wide rim with 4.5" of backspace. This could be a 16" rim as you mention or a 17" rim as referenced in the replies above.
I run a 17x9.5" rim with a 4" back space. That means my wheels (and tires) stick out quite a bit. However, even with this offset, my tires still rub on my frame under compression. I run a 14.50 wide tire.
Sorry if this is confusing.
I hope it helps!
Enjoy!
JK Freak
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 723
Likes: 2
From: Murrieta, CA
Consider your likely suspension upgrades carefully when purchasing wheels. The suspension parts and frame can rub. I think the EVO bolt on kit specs recommend 3.75" or less backspacing. My Teraflex kit required 4.5 or less. I have 4.75 backspacing on 17x9 wheels with 35" KM2 and there isn't any rub. Like said above, wider than a 9" wheel will require less backspacing to provide the same clearance from the suspension or other parts.
Check the FAQ for more information on Wheels and Tires
Check the FAQ for more information on Wheels and Tires
Last edited by bbrown626; Jul 10, 2012 at 02:45 PM.
