Stud upgrade?

[Conor Knoxx]

Hello wheel people! So.. I have a '99 Ranger XLT - doing some mods, and one of the things is "wheels/tires". Putting aside clearance issues, I'd really like to use some 35x12.5x15 inch - but I'm wondering about the durability/strength of the stock studs?
Anyone had them fail with big tires on them?
I suspect putting bigger ones is not that easy of an option either, but better than loosing a wheel! I should also say my intended purpose doesn't include any serious off-roading either, maybe a pot-hole covered gravel road the odd time.

 

[4x4junkie]

Wheel studs aren't an issue. I've been running 35x12.50s on mine for 13 years and 60K miles. Usually when studs break is during the course of changing wheels, or if they weren't torqued correctly and they come loose while driving.

What would concern me more is your 1999's IFS front axle driveline components. It'll probably be fine as long as you aren't doing anything serious as you say, however 33x12.50 tires would provide a more comfortable margin of safety against breakage/premature wear.

 

[Conor Knoxx]

thanks 4x4Junkie, nice to hear from someone who's "been there / done that" !
I guess I didn't mention its only 2WD - so only concerned with suspension, not drive train. They'll still put substantial stress on the front end though, I would imagine.

 

[4x4junkie]

Ah, ok. 2WD does eliminate the drivetrain issue.

Tire weight could potentially still be an issue, however I think you'll be OK (at least as long as you have the 8.8" rear axle). One thing that can help reduce stress on your suspension and wheel bearings is to keep your wheel offset within a half-inch or so of 0.

Putting it another way:
15x8" wheels with a 3.75" backspace typically are fine, as are 15x10 wheels with a 4.5" backspace. 15x10s with a 3.75" BS however are probably best avoided though, as they put the tires about 1" further out, the leverage from which will put more stress on components.