So, I've settled on the Soft 8s but now I'm faced with deciding between the 15" and the 16". The 15s are attractive because the rims and any tires I put on them are going to be cheaper. I've read that "FAQ" section which says that most 15" wheels will fit but I've also read some threads where guys have mentioned having to grind down their brakes to clear the wheels. That doesn't sound like the most brilliant of ideas in the first place plus I'm not very mechanically inclined and wouldn't know where to start with something like that. So, basically I'm wondering if anyone out there has had experience with the 15" Soft 8s. I have a 2009 X if that makes a difference.

 

Do 16's. You will have more tire sizes and wheel backspacing to choose from. If you choose 15's you are stuck with 3.75" backspacing in order to stay clear of interfering with the brake caliber.

For me, choosing 15's was my biggest mistake. I should've done more research about the JK and wheels when in the market.

 

I went through the same dilemma. I finally ended up going with 15" Pro Comp series 97's (or 98) which are very simlar to Cragar Soft 8's. I ordered 1 wheel to see how it fit. It barely scraped the outer surface of the brake caliper. Upon further inspection, I realized that I would only need to shave off about 1/16" of the area it contacted. This part of the caliper is about 1/2" thick and most of it was excess casting material. It took about 5 minutes to grind off the clearance I needed. I'm very happy with the results. The brake performance has not been compromised whatsoever. Not telling you what to do, just my experience with it.....lots of people are scared to do this but, it's really not a big deal. I'm poor so, I went the 15" route and it has worked out fine. Oh, and it's only the front brakes that are the issue.

 

https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/modified-jk-tech-2/15-wheels-what-fits-what-rubs-find-out-here-94709/

 

I have 15's and like them. i decided to go with 15's b/c the tires are cheaper for them and you can get most tires in a "C" rating, which makes for a softer ride. I didn't need to grind my cailpers b/c mine was 3.50 backspacing. If you would have to grind a little bit off, it shouldn't effect the brake performance because its usually so little to grind and its on the outside of the caliper.
Whatever you decide, good luck!!!

 

I went with 15" Cragar soft 8s. I barely had to grind anything at all. It was pretty much all flash from the casting. A couple of the wheels didn't even rub.

 

Well said!

Same here, and those that did, just barely.

All in all, the much more "economicable" way to go.

 

Discount Tire sells black MB72 wheels in 15 inches that do not rub on the calipers...

Just got my set installed today...

 

My Pro Comps fit without a problem. No grinding needed. Details in sig.

Figured I would be staying with 35-36" tires. Now thinking 37s and wanting the BFG KM2s but they don't offer those in a 37 on a 15" rim.

 

Anyone have any experience with 16x7s? The 16x8 Cragars have 5" of BS whereas the 16x7s have 4 or so inches and from what I've read 5" is too much.