Bilstein 2.1 and Tire Size

[Acicomp]

I know, I know... Another tire question is coming. I have searched and can't really find what I'm looking for, so I thought I'd ask here. I just ordered my Bilstein 5100 RHA shocks to level my 2015 Ram 1500 Tradesman Quad Cab. I have measured and decided to go with a 2.1 setting when I take it the to the shop. With that said, I have the 17x7 -spoke OEM wheels on the truck, so I am trying to figure out what tire size I can go to. I know a lot of people go with 285/70r17 when they do the level, however, most tire manufacturers recommend at least a 17x7.5 or larger wheel for that size. It looks like I can go up to a 275x70r17 based on the wheel size. I have also found a 34x10.50r17 BFG that will work on the 17x7 wheel. Will that 34" tire after a 2.1 level or should I either go with the 275 or find different wheels to fit the 285/70r17? If I go with different wheel like a 17x8, is there a specific offset to look for that would not require a spacer? I also see that 255/80/17 would be another option, but there isn’t a BFG in that size. Thanks for any advice here.

 

[BOWERSFJ]

Go with an 8.5”-9” wide wheel with a min of 0 offset


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[ram1500rsm]

No BFG KO2 in 255/80 but you have the BFG KM2.
https://m.tirerack.com/tires/tires....R7KM2RWL&vehicleSearch=false&fromCompare1=yes

You will find people doing 285/70/17 with 7" width wheels, youll find them doing 315/70/17. Optimal bigger size for that rim will be 255/80/17 for proper wear and handling. Sell those 17x7 wheels and get aftermarket wheels in 17x8 or 17x9 if you want to run bigger tires without worries and if you choose the proper offset you wont need spacers. Win win.

 

[hodge-xj]

Kenda Klever Rt is available in a 33x10.5 and a 35x10.5



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[Acicomp]

Thanks for the suggestions. I may try to find a set 17x8 with a 0 or small negative offset so I can go with a 285 tire.

 

[kurek]

I solved this problem for close to free by just using a 17x8 wheel from an older Ram 1500 . inexpensive, abundant, correct hub bore, and fits 285's like a glove

 

[Acicomp]

Thanks Kurek! Do you happen to know what year they started using the 17x7 instead of the larger size? This way, I can look for a set that predates the current size.

 

[Acicomp]

I have everything finished up now and rolling along.

Bilstein 5100 Shocks up front set @ 2.1
Bilstein 5100 Shocks in the rear
17x8 wheels from a earlier model (2003) to ensure proper width wheel for the new tires
AMP Terrain Pro LT285/70/17 tires

Ride quality is totally better now. I wish I had done this when the truck was new.

 

[zacbar]

Looks really good. Been contemplating the exact same mods. Got any before pics for comparison?

 

[Acicomp]

Here is the before with the LT265/70/17 and factory suspension compared to the after.