Justin Maffei

Hey everyone,
I'm new here and new to being a Jeep owner. I recently bought a 2011 JK. I'm pretty sure it has about a 6 inch lift but will have to verify. It had 20x wheels on it when I bought it. I'd like to get it on 17s and probably 295/79r17 tires. Most of the wheel and tire sites assume stock wheels are being replaced so I've had trouble figuring this out. So my question is, are there specific things I should know or consider in getting these new wheels/tires? I know this is probably a beginner beginner question, but this is where I am.

Thanks!

resharp001

It already sounds like you have more sense than the previous owner. 6" of lift would be completely redonk. 3.5" lift is really aggressive for a DD even. Also, 95% of the reason 20" wheels are on jeeps are dealers putting em on. Most of us will run a 17" wheel with 4.5" BS for 35s, and 3.5" BS for 37s....working your way to higher BS if smaller tires (factory wheels are 6.25" BS). More than things to know about wheel/tire sizes, you should look at bringing that sucker down. Here's the factory measurements up front so you can at least start by determining what the actual net lift height is. Pictures will really help us identify what you're working with and give some suggestions.

Justin Maffei

Thanks for the response. I'll try to get the measurements and some pics tomorrow. I could be wrong with the lift. That's just what I remember being told. I'll verify. Do 295/70r17 fit on any 17" wheels? For now, I may just grab some inexpensive OEM 17s and grab those tires to save a bit of money, if that would work.

Justin Maffei

I do think it's a bit higher than I'd like. Any clue the kind of cost I'd be looking at to drop it down some?

karls10jk

295's fit on stock wheels but the backspace comment above is important to note. Too little backspace (tire under the vehicle) and it's possible for your rear sway bar links to chew up the inside of the tire.

As far as bringing it down goes, it depends on how it was lifted. If things were cut then it can be more expensive. If it's just simple spacers and some high top fenders then it can be easy. Do you have any pics, even a link from the dealer/ seller would give us a ballpark idea.

Justin Maffei

I measured the front spring at about 15", so if I understand correctly, that would likely mean a 6" lift. I grabbed a couple pics in a downpour today.