First post here,

I own a 1997 4runner limited, no lift. Can I go up to a 265/75/16 tire without rubbing my stock fender flares. its hard finding a nice tire that is 265/70/16. I was thinking of going with toyo open country mt's, or BFG Mud-Terrains, or BFG All-terrains. Will i have to take off my Flares?

 

Before a lot of people tell you to do a search...
The 265/75 will fit with some rubbing at full stuff(articulated) on your stock Runner. I am running this size and have actually rubbed a tiny bit with a 2 1/2 inch lift but I had her on the bump stops flexed out big time. If you are talking about going with MT's that probably means you plan on off roading it a lot? Can see no other reason to choose these. If so cool. but why not do a small lift? Spacer lifts are cheap and easy. This would really help out. The thing is that once you start this whole thing in motion it is a domino effect. I would figure out how you plan on using your Runner first then see what you will need to do it.
BTW under your limited flares are rectangular holes in the sheet metal. So taking them off is not as easy an option as it might seem.
Keep posting and see if we can help you out. Welcome to Yotatech!

 

aren't 2001's the shortest of all the 3rd gens? I never rubbed (even at full stuff) with 265/75's on my 96 limited

 

01's and 02's are, the lowest, yea.

i put 265/75s on my truck after the pp lift, so i got no rubbing...

 

I replaced my 265/70-16's with 265/75-16's on my '00 and they don't rub. The size difference, although a variable from tire to tire, is minimal.

 

I had 265/75/16's (BFG All terrians) on my 99 Limited and had a very RARE front end rub on extreme curbs

 

Only rubbing I have had is on the rear lower flare/mud flap. Other wheel was off the ground. I usually take the 3 bolts out and take those flaps off anyway when wheeling so I don't bend them and mess up the paint. I would agree that 01 02 are the lowest. With 2.5" front lift I don't look that much higher than the earlier 3rd gens.
Flare/flap on:

With Flare/flap off:

 

I have a set of Nittos in that size and zero rubbing issues even at full turn to turn.