Lift/Tires size...

[laura]

I think this has been addressed somewhere before....sorry if it's repetitive.

I'm ordering a 5.5" suspension lift. Can I fit 38's under that? I only have 32s right now and would like something bigger...

Thanks!
Laura

 

[trailpsycho]

Laura-

Welcome to the forum! This is a great site with great people. It also has a great search engine...seriously. OK, now that I have been a subtle a$$...38s will fit 5.5, flares will be needed and depending on how much and what type of wheeling/flexing you will do, you may still rub a bit. Additional lift via a 1" -3" body lift may also be necessary...it all depends on your flex and what flares (how much you trim) as to how well those tires fit. For just street and mild running 38s should fit fine. People run larger even larer tires, so it shouldnt be much of a problem. A search will provide you with more definitive info, pics to get you an idea on stance and such and maybe even some ideas on sourcing those big-a$$ meats. Best of luck on your build and have a good time. Again, welcome to the site.

John

 

[trailpsycho]

One more thing about larger tires, the bigger they are, the harder the Bronco becomes to stop (more rotating mass). You will definitely want to beef up your brakes (discs up front at a minimum), power brake booster or hydroboost as well would be even better. 35" s are an excellent size tire for a Bronco (proportionally)...although bigger doesnt look bad. As with all things Bronco, as you start to do more and more modifications, the can of worms turns into a jar and then a jug and then a barrell...so think about all of the details...there is alot more to a 5.5" lift than just slapping on some springs. Running larger tires also puts more stress on axles and drivetrain components. You are probably still running the stock gear sets (F=3.54/R=3.50) in your axles...32s/33s are about all you really want to run on stock gears...as you go to larger tires, its harder on the clutch (and other components) to get the truck moving (38" tires should have at least 4.88 gears). Regearing both axles is not cheap (and 38" tires will make your head spin).

I think your Bronco looks pretty cool the way it is. I would recommend doing a bit more research. I would also strongly recommend that you get some tools and a Haynes and Chilton manual and start doing some maintenance. As you get comfortable and familiar with your truck, you can start to tackle some of these projects you want to do by yourself or with the help of some local Bronco-friends...however, while Broncos kick ass they are also tempermental and you should know your way around them to some extent. Fixes on the road are just part of it--over time. Good luck.

Oh yeah, redheads rock!

John

 

[SaddleUp]

With the 38's your going to be hitting the rear wheel wells on the ends if you flex it at all. My 37's were even hitting. I corrected this on mine by extending the wheel wells about 4".