Hi all, I'm a new member and I've been reading some topics on here. I drive a 2003 F-150XLT 4x4. It has a sido Flowmaster Exhaust, K&N cold air intake, and superchips tuner. The factory tires are wearing out and I'm ready to upgrade. I'm going to get the Helo Maxx 6 rims, black w/ machined lip 17x9. My questions are: Should I order the rims in 4 1/2 or 5 3/8 backspace? I'm not sure what that means but thats the 2 options. Also will 305/70/17 or 295/70/17 tires fit, I don't mind cranking the torsion bars up an inch or so. I was thinking of an add a leaf in the back and after market torsion keys in the front to get couple extra inches of lift. What these be necessary to fit the tires I want. I have also read both positive and negative comments on the torsion keys, what do you think? I do a lot of hunting and fishing so my truck does see some off road use. Thanks for the help!

 

I'd go with the 17x9's with 4.5 inches of backspacing which is what your OEM wheels have. Personally, I'd go with a 305/65-17 (33x12.50) tire but you should be able to fit the 305/70-17's (34x12.50) if you choose. Also, I'd just crank up the torsion bars with the OEM adjustment keys. The aftermarket keys allow you to put way too much preload on your torsion bars.