2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission '00-'01 Alloy wheels won't fit '96 2500??

[Racechaser]

I got a nice deal on a set of these wheels, but they hit the edge of the rear brake drums. They are the 16x8 5 hole alloys. Anyone know if they put different drums on the 2000-2001 2500's, and if so will they fit on my '96 without having to change everything?? It has the Dana 80 w/limited slip.

Thanks,

Matt

 

[JGK]

Never heard of anyone changing drums. Of the handful of those that have made this work, they simply had the rim of the drum that interfers with the wheel shaved at a brake shop. Only need to take off an 1/8" or so and the area is not structural.



You may also find the rims hit the ball joints and/or tie rod ends on the front (check when turning lock to lock, too). I've heard that can be fixed by grinding off just a tad of the joint with a hand grinder.



Some say "no problems", others won't risk it. I almost did as you are considering, but decided to just buy rims that fit. A long-time car/truck salesman I know mentioned that if you ever got in a wreck and there was some indication it was brake related, your mods may leave you liable. Kind of a stretch, but something to consider.



-Jay

 

[Thomas]

"Anyone know if they put different drums on the 2000-2001 2500's . . . "



Model years 1994-1999 Ram 2500's have 13. 0" x 2. 5" rear drums. Model years 2000 & 2001 Ram 2500's and Ram 3500's have 12. 125" x 3. 5" drums. I don't think the newer drums will fit on your '96 "without having to change everything".

 

[Racechaser]

Thanks gents, looks like they're going back on the market.

 

[HEMI®Dart]

Racechaser,



Why don't you try using a spacer on the rear. 1/8" or 1/4" thick should do it. You should'nt even notice them. Inexpensive too.



#ad

 

[Racechaser]

PM'd you back Dan, might be interested in going that route.

 

[Un-Hemi]

As you can see by my signature, I also have a '99 truck with the big drums. I had the drums turned down (approximately 1/8" for a total of 1/4" smaller diameter). It's not a critical part of the drum that gets removed, so there is no safety issue. Ensure that the drum is properly seated on the brake lathe to prevent excentricity.



The fronts had no interference, but mine is a 2WD.



Nice wheels. What're they off?

 

[Racechaser]

They're off an '01 and have less than 1k miles on them Tommy. A friend of mine had them and I pestered him for two years to buy them. Got the drums off last night, going to try to get them machined today. I'll keep you posted.

 

[Racechaser]

Well, a trip to NAPA and $20 later, they fit nicely, with plenty of clearance. Only a very minimal amount, (1/8"), had to be removed and it is not in the area the shoe contacts. Thanks to all of you for your guidance, this is one of the most valuable resources when it comes to the in's & out's of these trucks.

Rattle on!!!

 

[Un-Hemi]

For some reason, they didn't look like factory alloys! I guess I was having a senior moment.



When you mount the front wheels, swing the steering right through its range with support under the front axle. The consensus is, that there is minimal clearance, tie rod end-to-wheel.