Why Arent There More 17x8 Wheels?

I3usdriver · March 23, 2011

I got '06 Silverado with RC leveling kit, running 285/70/17 Mickey T baja atz radials and from what I read 17x9 wheels will more than likely rub with whatever combo of offset and backspacing. So ok, no big deal, I'll just get 17x8 wheels right? Well, the selection for 17x8 wheels is subpar, I havent found any I like. I like lots of 17x9 wheels, but do not want to put up with the rubbing. Is it just "more people want to buy wider rims" and thats why so many more 17x9 than 17x8 wheels on the market? Or is it a mechanical/physics issue? The stockers are killing me!!!

cparks555 · March 23, 2011

Most people want a wider wheel so they can run a wider tire safely.

I3usdriver · March 23, 2011

Gotcha. American Racing ATX Assault is decent for 17x8, but Im not in love with em like the MT sidebiters, Classic II's, and Helo Maxx 6's...

I3usdriver · March 23, 2011

I'll do some research on trimming possibilites because those Assault rims look uglier and uglier er time I look at em.

cparks555 · March 24, 2011

I don't see why a 17x9 with the correct backspacing would cause you to rub. Hopefully someone with more knowledge on this subject can give you a definite answer. Good luck

stlavsa · March 24, 2011

I don't see why a 17x9 with the correct backspacing would cause you to rub. Hopefully someone with more knowledge on this subject can give you a definite answer. Good luck

The wider wheel isnt going to matter its the tire width...IF u get a wider wheel just stick with a more conservative offset/backspace and you will be fine..

Big Whiskey · March 24, 2011

My 17x8.5 wheels fit fine with +25 offset. American Racing, Ultra, and Vision all make 17x8 or 17x8.5 wheels with positive offset.

Doug_Scott · March 24, 2011

I don't see why a 17x9 with the correct backspacing would cause you to rub. Hopefully someone with more knowledge on this subject can give you a definite answer. Good luck

I agree, the width of the wheel is not the source of the rubbing, the width/height of the tire is the major source. That being said, if you run a 285-70-17 on a 8 inch wheel it will be the exact same width at the tread as if you put it on a 9 inch wheel, but the 9 inch wheel will make the tire slightly wider (half inch each side compared to 8 inch wheel) at its widest point (the sidewall). Anytime you alter the wheel/tire combination you run the risk of it rubbing, even using the standard sizes. My buddies 05 Sierra has had the RF tire rubbing on full right turn since the day he picked it up new. Inner fender is just off a bit from what it should be, he did not complain during the warranty period, so it still does it.