okay guys, as you can tell by the post count, i am a newb, but i think this is a valid question, and i was not able to find an answer while searching. If you have a link to a thread, I would be more than happy to read through it.

I am collecting all the parts I need to build my 4runner, right now I am weighing my wheel options. My vehicle is going to mainly be setup for trails, with the occassional low-level rock crawl. I am planning on running a 285 width tire.

my questions are these. I was originally going to go with 16x8s, but then I had a buddy who has done his share of crawlin, and he said that they would have a tendency to pop the bead, when deflated, and that I should go with 16x7s.

so i went to 4wheelparts(yea, i know) and talked to the guy, who said, that it would only be a concern with single digit tire pressures, and because of what my rig will be used for, he would recommend the 16x8s.

then i talked to my dad, who is an automotive/mechanical engineer by training, and he mentioned that a sidewall that big would have "squirrely" on road characteristics. and that i should consider a bigger rim. Now onroad is not my major concern, but it is of some concern to me. Anyhow I was considering maybe something like the tundra wheels in 17x7.5. coming from the sports car world, i am aware of what he is saying about stiffer sidewalls(to an extent) yielding better handling characteristics.

anyhow, your input/knowledge/opinions would be greatly appreciated.

 

First, this isn't a sports car. The suspension and body roll are going to be far more of a concern than tire squirm.

A 285 is about a 33 x 11.50. I would go with the 7". It will retain the bead better when aired down and provide a little more sidewall bulge to help protect the lip of the rim so you don't get "bead leakers".

Check tire prices though - 17's are getting real popular now, and they could be significantly cheaper than 16's

 

thanks for the input TC. makes sense about the 7" wheels holding the bead better, and getting better protection from the tire.

i definitely know it isn't a sports car, it's obvious every time i get behind the wheel. i now know who they made the cautionary miles per hour signs on offramps for now. If it says 35 you better go 35, haha. I understand what you are saying about the suspension, but trust me I can feel these tires folding under as is(265/70 Michelin somethin or anothers). However, like I mentioned it isn't my main concern, just something else stewing in the pot.

Thanks again.

 

double post.

 

I was looking at similar setups. I would say, if you are going to do some serious rock crawling, do the 16x7 on a 11" tire. If you go with a wider tire (not recommended) do the 16x8. 17" tires are becoming more popular and available, but I read you'd really have to do a 35" tire to safely crawl. Thus I went w/16x8's. Still searching on a good set of tires. Not sure if 265/75, 255/85, or 285/75. I guess the best deal will determine it for me.