Quote Originally Posted by Riff Raff View Post
Scott-- I'm saddened too that the new Cooper LTZ's wouldn't fit. Your tire guy is incorrect in assuring you that it is not your rims; because, IT IS purely your aftermarket rims causing the excessive rubbing. The "combination" of wider 9" rim, different offset from OEM, and different back-spacing from OEM has resulted in the already taller 31.4" O.D. and wider 285 series Cooper LTZ tire being spread-out too wide and creating a much wider turning arc when turned.

The "ONLY" reason VX-KAT had no problems is because she used her stock OEM 18x7 rims which kept the LTZ's neatly tucked within the front wheel wells without any major rubbing issues (just a little trim). The use of VX stock OEM rims (1999-16" or 2000/2001-18") is truly "the secret" to minimizing front tire rubbing issues.

I see by your Photo Gallery that your current Nitto T.G.'s are 255/55R18 (29" O.D.). I assume you would like to go a bit wider with a 285 series tire. However; since you have a wide 9" rim, you will need to go with a lower profile (aspect ratio) tire in either a 50 or 55 series low profile to prevent rubbing issues.

I suggest you seriously consider the MAXXIS - MA-S1 MARAUDER tire in either 285/50R18 (29.2" O.D.) or 285/55R18 (30" O.D.). This is a very wicked looking directional tire with a good meaty tread comparable to an A/T type tire and capable of handling snow. Visit www.MaxxisTires.com. Since your OEM tires were 29.5" O.D., your speedometer will be very close to accurate within 1 to 2 MPH (+/-). Other tire websites you should check-out are www.1010Tires.com (my personal favorite), and www.OnLineTires.com.
Riff Raff

I agree and that's exactly what I was doing yesterday evening. Found the Maxxis and so far that's my point leader. The Scorpion Zero's also come in 55s but they won't handle the New England Winters as well as I would like. Does anyone have any experience with Maxxis in snow?