Hi everyone. This is my first post on this site. I just traded in my old Jeep and bought a new 2009 Wrangler Unlimited X a few weeks ago. All I've done to it so far is add fog lights. Now it's time for bigger tires. Here's my question. I want to put 33's on it. It came with the puny tires (225/75/16). First let me add that it's an automatic, 3:73 gears, stock suspension, and no lift of course. Here's my question. Will these wheel/tire combos work, if so, which one would be better for me? I really don't want to lift it or use wheel spacers yet.

Here are the combos. 33/12.5/17 or 33/12.5/16. or do I need to go with a tire that's not as wide?

Also, I live in the mountains and we get quite a bit of snow every winter. I don't usually chain up unless R3 conditions are declared. When that happens they make everyone put their chains on, even 4 wheel drive with snow tires. So there's the snow chain factor. I'll need some clearance for that. I actually don't use chains. I use Z-cables, so not as much clearance as chains is need I guess???

I'm thinking about Cragar Soft 8's and still trying to decide on the tire.

Any info would be helpful. Thanks.

Ray

 

Welcome to the Forum!!! And congrats on the new Jeep!!!

Check out the search function and you will see a lot of info about running 33s on a stock set up. Basically, you're going to rub. It won't be terrible, but when you flex, if you flex, it will rub. Especially with chains, I would consider at least a 1" body lift all the way up to a 2" body lift just to be safe. And as far as the combos you picked, both 16 and 17 inch rims work fine, alot of guys run the Soft 8s. Backspace is the key and you don't want more backspace than 4.5 inches. Anything less than that will just push the tires out more, which isn't necessarily a bad thing (depending on the laws in your area about fenders)

 

Welcome to JK-Forum. This may help some...

MODIFIED TECH FAQ - Answers to the Questions Every Newbie Has

 

Ok thanks. So 33/12.5/16 is what I'll probably go with. If I get a 1" or 2" body lift will my stock suspension will be ok? and what about my drivelines? Will there be too much stress put on them or will thay be ok?

Should I get the computer flashed afterwards to recalibrate the speedo and so that the tranmission will shift at the right points?

 

I'm not positive, but I think you will need the Hypertech programmer to flash it yourself. Dealer can only program up to 32 inch tire.(???) Someone else may correct me there.

A body lift is cheaper, and wont affect suspension, but I would go with a 2.5 inch budget boost if you're not opposed to it. With the wheels you want, it would look and perform great, not to mention give you plenty of room for your tires with chains.

Welcome, and congrats on the new JK!

 

Ok, so this is what I want to go with. Let me know if this will work.

Wheels are 16x8, 5 on 5 with 4.25 backspacing "Black Rock Series 997 Type 8 Steel wheel in matte black".

Tires are General Grabber AT2 - 305/70/16.

If I decide to get the Teraflex 2.5 BB, should I get the one with the shocks or the shock exteneders? What's the difference in handling between the two?

 

Bump......... Post was on page 3. Would like to order wheels and tires tomorrow if this set up will work for me.

Thanks.

 

Get the one with the longer shocks. The TeraFlex shocks are great and beefy. Definitely get the TF 2.5" BB, they make great products.

As for the 33's, I have the MT Baja Claws right now in 35's, but I originally had Dakota Definity MT's in 285x75 R16's and I loved them. They are very inexpensive, make very little noise and the ride is great on the road. You can see how they look here: http://my.project-jk.com/showphoto.php?photo=30966 You get them at Pep Boys, but I believe they are a Cooper made tire.

 

For the lift I too would get the shocks.
As for the tires, nothing against Dakota's but for a snow tire you have the right idea w/ the Generals.
You may also check out the Cooper Discoverer S/T or the Nitto Terra Grappler for a good all season A/T.

 

Get the lift with the shocks. You will need the lift to run those 305's.