wheel/tire, and suspension question.

i purchased my 05 2wd with a set of 22" rims with 305/45/r22 tires already installed. due to recent towing/ heavy loads in the bed the 22" weren't cutting it. i just purchased a set of 06 factory 20" rims with 275/55/20 tires. the factory tires are much smaller than the ones that were on the 22' rims.

seeing the truck is NOT a 4x4 i have no desire to lift it or install large mud tires. however i want it to handle what i throw at it (all terrain tires)....from researching 33x12.5r20 will fit no problem, however most people say a level kit is required. tire calculator says the difference from the 305/45/22 (32.8 diameter) and a 33" tire is only a .6 difference, the width of former rims was 12.01 vs the 12.5. a level kit wont fix the width issue so what is a level kit needed for?

as for the common 33x12.5 on a stock 2wd truck has anyone had issues? the #'s / dimensions are about the same but one is a "low pro" street tire, and the new will be a more "off road" look.

 

The level kit does help with the width as it gives the tires more room to turn without scrubbing the frame, valence, etc. Also helps with a more aggressive tires version a street tread. And on stock wheels you run the risk of rubbing the upper control arms too with a tire that wide.

 

The closest to your old size would be a 305/55/20.

 

before

with factory 20's

went with 275/55/20....hope they will look good on the truck

 

I bought some 20 oem wheels that had 295/60/20 terra grapplers that rubbed at max turns. I too wanted a tire closer to stock so I had 275/60/20 installed today and they rub too! But I'll deal with it as it is better.

 

came out good, would have liked a little larger but for the price im happy! no rubbing (stock dimensions so it shouldn't) smooth ride, good grip. now i measured and the front is exactly 2" lower than the rear. so maybe future mod of a 2" level kit in in order


so i sold the 22" rims for $600, paid $500 for the tires, $80 for mount/balance, plus $200 for the factory 20" rims. i have the stock tires on craigslist so hopefully the "transformation" will only cost me $100-$200.

final:

 

That's a lot better and definitely great looking, good job!

 

always loved the look of those fac wheels.. they look even better with some beefy tires on them..