tuxster

I did some searching through a few threads but did not find my answer. I am also new to having a 2 dr Rubicon and have no off road driver training (yet).

The stock rubicon comes with 32" BFG tires on 17" rims with 4:10 axles.
If I was to change out the stock rims and tires I was thinking along the lines of the GY Duratacs LT315/70R17 which are 35" tires.
Am I wrong to think I can get away with 35 in tires under the stock ruby ? I only go up and down fire roads looking for geocaches.
Is this a big change to even consider, i.e. The diff between a 32" and 35" tire is it that dramatic or should I just shelve the idea and stock pile some more money to put a 3" lift with 37" tires/rims.

At this time I would like to try some more off roading as its not a daily driver but a weekend toy, but have not found anyone in the local area yet to go with so hence I say so far its been a fire road runner. Keep in mind I only purchased it last September.

Any help would be appreciated.

tuxster

I just found an article that is dated but exactly what I was looking for.
What I am after for my rubicon is 35" duratracs on stock rims with spacers. The article (Less Is More: Jeep Wrangler JK Suspension - Jp Magazine) indicates that stock suspension with a few suspension modifications for more weight carrying i.e. bumpers/winch etc, will be more to my driving habits and provide trail riding that I have in mind.

It states the 35" tires are 8% larger than the stock rubicon 32" and pose less wear and tear on the stock jeep components. Only minimal upgrades required to keep the stock drivability and still provide good bite off road.

Looks like 37" times are 14% larger but added weight will require quite a bit more upgrades than I thought, lift, gears and all which will affect the rubicons drivability.

Am I on the right track here ? Has anyone on this forum put 35" on stock rubicon rims ? Is 7.5" width of the stock rim too tight for the duratracs ?

Thx

Topbanana

I think your getting some misintell. I've never heard on anyone (successfully) running 35 on a Rubi, other than a Mall Crawler, without at least a 2 inch lift kit. Is that what Jp Magazine is calling "weight carrying modifications? I read Jp Mag, and IMO, their articles are a little "sketchy"!. The very fact that they say putting tires which are 8% larger than stock (while not 8% heavier, ARE heavier) will "pose less wear and tear on the stock jeep components" is a load of crap! Furthermore if you research the recommended rim width for any 35" tire you will quickly see there is not one recommended for using anything less than an 8" rim. 9" is recommended.
My suggestion would be go get yourself at set of 33' (285/70X16) DuraTracs and some nice rims with 4.5" backspacing so everything fits WITHOUT spacers and go play. I think you will find this set up does everything you want to do. It will maintain the Rubi's day to day drive ability, remember you still got to get TO the trail and HOME again. If and when you finally find someone and something serious enough to "bury" you, give the 35" idea a new look over. You'll likely find a winch is a way better investment. Just my opinion.
topbanana
2015 2dr Rubi "BAJA" Edition