Ask The Expert- tire size & rubbing

timp

Jeep Newb
I'm looking to upsize my factory tires, (until I can afford to bigger with lift, tires, wheels, etc.). Factory size is 255/70R18 which is 32.1" and I'm torn between 265/70R18 and 285/65R18. Both are 32.6" but one is 10.4" wide and the other is 11.2". I don't believe the height will affect anything but speed. My concern is the width. Would the 11.2" cause any rubbing? Thanks in advance
 

Pthorpe84

Moderator
Staff member
I'm looking to upsize my factory tires, (until I can afford to bigger with lift, tires, wheels, etc.). Factory size is 255/70R18 which is 32.1" and I'm torn between 265/70R18 and 285/65R18. Both are 32.6" but one is 10.4" wide and the other is 11.2". I don't believe the height will affect anything but speed. My concern is the width. Would the 11.2" cause any rubbing? Thanks in advance
I am going to assume you have a JK based on your profile pic. If you are running factory wheels with no spacers, you will have some rubbing. I ran 37X13.50R17's on a JKU at stock height with minimal rubbing at full lock...but this was with a beadlock at 3.5" backspacing. I have to believe you will have a small amount of rubbing with a 11" width. You may want to look into some spacers to widen your stance. Good luck.
 
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