My tires need to be replaced before I can afford to install a lift.  I was planning on getting some backspaced wheels to widen the track width.  How do I figure out the maximum tire size I can fit with no rub if I use the backspaced wheels?  Obviously this depends on the width of the tires and the amount of backspacing.

I eventally want to install 235/75 R15's and a 3 inch calmini sus lift...but until then...

get the 235/75r15's. you dont need any lift or trimming to fit them.

i have 235 75 15 on stock rims. no rubbing. But with lower backspaced wheels they will rub. just take a sawzall to the fenders

not always, my 235's never rubbed before my lift, and they were on 2.75" backspaced 15x7's.

What brand/model of wheels where those?  Did you like them?  With that width and spacing, how far did the tires stick out from the body?

Thanks guys

I had 215/75's on Jeep CJ wheels, 15x7; 3.75" backspacing. I later added 1.25" lift via coil spacers and 30x9.5's - only needed trimming on the inside of the fender, the pinch weld seam, and a diagonal cut from the outside of the fender to the inside firewall area. The rims stick out about 2" more than stock - 1.5" more in width, and 1/2" less backspacing.


With 30's(They were about 40% worn) and the spacers

I like the look of that.  I'm trying to decide on a set of wheels.  I'm not sure what to get, but I don't want to spend too much and I'd like 5 of the same wheel for a full sized, full function spare.

Are CJ wheels a good choice? 

my wheels were 15x7 american racing wheels, i think. i got them from my dad, then he got them back when i sold that sidekick to him. they were ok, but i like my aluminum mickey thompson's a lot better.

I like the look of that.  I'm trying to decide on a set of wheels.  I'm not sure what to get, but I don't want to spend too much and I'd like 5 of the same wheel for a full sized, full function spare.

Are CJ wheels a good choice? 

They were a good choice for me because they were in a nearby salvage yard for about $60. They needed about 4 hours work sanding and painting. I used 2 cans of paint, I sprayed a few coats.
I'd prefer aluminum to keep the weight down, but they're too much money for me. For my new truck, I bought a set of Ford 4x4 wheels identical to the CJ wheels in the same size, but 3.5" back spacing, and only $50. I haven't finished sanding/painting them yet.

heres my kickR with 235/75R15 stock height.

forgot to metion... no rubbing in fully cranked.
it should be a little higher in the back, but i have my buddy and his girfriend back there.

I have 30 X 9.5" BFG MT's on 15X7 wheels with 3.75 backspacing.  No rubbing after a small amount of front bumper cover trimming which I did with a hack saw, nice and clean.  With a couple of inches of lift they wont contact at all even when wheeling.  I wish I had a good pic because they really look good as well as work ggreat!

well right now I've smaller-than-stock tires (they were on it when I bought it) and they look just plain silly. 

When I buy wheels, I'm not sure what backspacing to ask for
(or to look for myself if buying used rims).  I understand how to measure backspacing, but I'm just not just sure what is going to work right.  I'm thinking of either 7" or 8" wide rims.  I want the tires to stick out from the body a bit (like in Uncivilized's first pic), hopefully improving stability and reducing my fear off tipping over (even if it's only a psychological effect).

Andbody got an idea of an actual number I can tell them at the shop?

And lastly, do 235's fit the spare tire carrier without modifying it?  (I realize the backspacing will effect the fit here too).

Thanks for all the responses!

And lastly, do 235's fit the spare tire carrier without modifying it?  (I realize the backspacing will effect the fit here too).

Yes.

I wish I had some pics of my tires and wheels to post.  I think that is the look and fit you are looking for.  I have 1" of lift with 30X9.5 tires on 15X7 wheels with 3.75 backspacing with only minimal trimming needed on the lower front bumper cover.  My wheels are about 3/4 inch larger in diameter and about 3/4 inch wider than 235X15s.

So final answer.   235X15 AT or MT type tires will fit on 15X7 wheels with 3.75 backspacing and will not rub.  235's will also go on the 15X7 wheels with 4" backspace and won't rub either. if you put them on stock wheels with 4.5" backspacing the wheels will rub just a bit on the inside frame rails on full lock to lock turns.  The outside edge of the wheels will be just about flush with the hubs and will sit fully inside the wheel well without extending out at all.