Hello all, Ive been reading for awhile and I have a question. I have a 97 CAB 4.6 /5 speed 4wd. I have a set of 18" Lightning wheels (18 by 9.5 with 5.8 backspacing) I was looking to put on it and Im considering the Goodyear Silent Armor 325/60. I know the original tire size is 295/45. Any issues or Any input? I was looking to avoid any lifts or t bar mods.

 

I've seen a few members here and at FTW run large off road tires on L wheels. What concerns me is the deep backspacings. You can fit those tires normally using a 10 inch wide wheel with 4.5 inches of BS and doings some trimming of the front bumper's lower plastic valance. I'd be concerned about a 325/60 rubbing the frame as steering gets near full lock. They may fit. A narrower 305/60-18 should fit with no problems.

 

One thing to keep in mind about getting bigger wheels is you have to correct the speedometer. The 97's and 98's have the analog odometer meaning you can't just use a tuner to correct the PCM, you have to buy a new speedometer gear to go in the vehicle speed sensor. Not sure if you were aware of that or not, just thought I'd remind you. I'm going through this now but I'm gonna wait till I get my 4.56's for Christmas to correct it.

 

You don't have to correct the speedometer, but it's a really good idea.

 

do they even make a speedo gear to correct for 4.56's?? the only thing ive been able to find is a black 23 tooth speedo gear wich i have for my 4.10s

 

I already mounted the original lightning wheel/tire combo and I have app an inch between it and te control arm

 

as far as the speedo would you know if the SUPERLIFT TRU SPEED CALIBRATOR would work on the 97?

 

I don't think so since your speedo is not computer controlled.

 

anybody else got any input?