2001 wheels on a 98' 4X4

[pseward]

I own a 98 1/2 Cummins 4X4 which came with the 245 tires on steel rims which I believe are 16 x 6. 5 (or 7. ). I would like to replace these wheels with 2000 - 2001 alloys which are 16x8 in order to use larger tires. These newer wheels are occasionally available on e-bay but a seller mentioned that the newer wheels would not fit my 98 model truck because of the rear brake. Does anyone know if this is true and if so, what is a cost effective alternative.

 

[xcucv]

It can be done but a pain. I just fit some 01's to my 99 but it took a while to work out the bugs.



Here is what I did.

1. Remove rear tires and start truck, put in first and let the hub go round at idle (make sure you have a lugnut on) and take a 10" grinder and grind away at the rear lip. I had to remove about 3/16 of an inch to get them to clear, this was not fun.



2. On the front, the tie rod ends have a metal cap on then that cap the rubber dust cover and this must be removed, if you just grind a little away the cap will turn and start to rub on the rim. Also you must remove a little of the tie rod end housing with a grinder to get the rims to clear. Last you must make sure the lip of the rim does not hit the tie rod when you turn full lock.



Would I do it again, I dont think so but after so much time and effort it was a pride thing.



PS When I weighed my steels with 245's and then the alloys with 265's, guess what, same weight.

 

[pseward]

Thanks for your time and thoughtful response. You've just talked me out of that particular conversion. I'm going to probably just use the stock wheels and install the 265s which others say have worked just fine.

 

[Okie-Go]

pseword, go to the discount tire. I saw a set of custom wheels at the one here in Texas City for 105 a piece. 16x 8 The center cap came with them. These would be cheaper than the ones on e-bay. Freight will kill ya. A lot of the tire shops will let you trade your wheels in to help out the cost. Just an idea!

 

[cullyguy]

Go check the classifieds. The freight won't Kill Ya. The Aluminum Wheels are UPS shipable & not very heavy.