Darren

Alright guys, I need some definitive answers here, if you're able to provide them.

I don't think there are but a few of you on the board with these wheels, but the general back spacing principle still applies.

Here's the deal. I ordered, and have in my possession, the Mickey Thompson Classic II 16x8 wheels from Desert Rat. I requested the 4 9/16 back spaced ones but received the 3 5/8 instead. I re-ordered the 4 9/16 ones yesterday and will be here in a week while the ones I have are scheduled to be picked up on Monday.

I just checked with another owner from 4x4Wire who has the 3 5/8 wheels, but is running 265/75's, so it really isn't apples to apples to what I'm looking at. He was gracious enough to send me a few pics as to how far the tires stuck out and they aren't as wide as I thought they might be. Based on those, I'm guessing if I did this, mine would be pretty even with the edges of my big (limited) flares. Looks are only a third of the equation though.

I realize ~4-4.5 is optimal back spacing for 3rd Gens, and I know a couple others here have the 4 9/16 back spaced ones and have no problems, but does anyone else have experience with anything wider?

My questions are what are your thoughts on the rubbing that might incur with the 3 5/8? Would they work? Would the rubbing be substantially worse going ~3/4" wider? Should I definitely stay with the 4 9/16 spacing?

I know it's smart that I'm asking after I've purchased ( ), but I thought I knew the answer originally. And now that I'll have both, I'll keep whichever one is best.

Any input is appreciated.

Edit: I pretty much found my answer. No way will the 3 5/8" work. A spacer will be needed on the front to clear the brake calipers with the 4 9/16" version.

RO LEX

whats up Darren, ive been checking out your ride for a bit now, it looks tight! im getting my lift and MT Classic II's installed on 6/6, this Friday for my 98' Runner. (yah im new to the lift circle) i have the 4 9/16 backspacing for the rims and was wondering if you have any pics of the spacers that were needed to clear the front calipers. didnt know that was an issue. ill try the rims on myself tomorrow!

Darren

Thanks for the compliment!

For the same post with a bit more feedback that was received here, view it over at 4x4wire.

The spacers I am going with were designed by Andy ("Red Chili") who lives a few miles away from me. He has a '98 Runner as well. The spacers are 1/4" and apparently are better than a standard spacer but he would have to expand on that thought as I don't have his email here at work that he originally sent me. This setup has worked great for him. I now have the 4 9/16" wheels in my possession and just waiting for these things to be finished up.

Spacers will absolutely be necessary with that back space. As it is, when I went over to view Andy's, the fit is extremely tight. It actually looks like it would rub with the spacers, so that tells you how tight the fit really is. When I had the 3 5/8" version of these wheels, there was only about 1/2" of clearance.

Also, being that the wheels are thicker than stock, Andy picked up a set of rear wheel lugs for the front. I did the same. For a comparison picture and Toyota part number, view the 4x4wire thread.

Here are a couple of pictures Andy sent me awhile back and I hope he doesn't mind me sharing:










Obviously, I wish these wheels were just a straight fit, but I guess you just have to do what you got to do to fit them. Good luck with yours which ever route you go. Be sure to send me some pics when you're done!

RO LEX

i'm having Powerslot rotors installed. i'll find out if the rim fitment will be affected positively or neg. anyways ill post pics soon as i figure this computer thing out! thanks for the pics. Bobby