Trying to figure out the right wheels.

[Kylem40]

I have a 1995 Ranger xlt. I'm in the process of lowering it and 8.8 explorer swapping it. I'm trying to figure out the right wheel to run. I've seen and read some of the wheel threads but it still doesnt help. I know the 8.8 is wider or at least the explorer 8.8 is then the stock 7.5. I found a gorgeous set of wheels but I do not know the back spacing. They are 18x9.5 with a +15 offset. Can anyone help me on this? I've been trying to find more info but not having luck. I do not want to run spacers if I do not have to.

 

[sheep herder]

Those wheels should have somewhere between 5.75" to 6" backspace.
https://www.therangerstation.com/tech/ford-ranger-wheel-fitment-guide/

 

[Kylem40]

So do you think that is to much back spacing. I asked the seller and they of course have no idea.

 

[Kylem40]

I saw that guide when I was looking but does that mean on the ranger the back spacing cannot be more then 4.5?

 

[sheep herder]

With a wider rear axle, you'll need a bit more backspacing to keep the tires inside the fenders. I'm not sure how well those wheels will work on the front but the rear might be fine.

 

[Kylem40]

Alright cool. I've gotta wait odviously to measure it but just trying to get an idea.

 

[Kylem40]

Thank you

 

[Curious Hound]

That might be too much for the front. I would expect them to hit the radius arm or something else when you turn.

The rear is easy to check. If you have stock wheels now, (4.5” backspacing?) just take a ruler and make sure you have another 2” minimum of space between the tire and anything else it might hit such as the leaf springs.

 

[Kylem40]

Alright will do. I'll have to wait till I get the front all back together as its torn apart right now. Doing the sport trac rotor conversion while it's all apart to. I figured if I can test fit my buddies 07 gt500 wheels on the ranger that will maybe give me a idea of what I'm working with on what will fit to.

 

[pjtoledo]

the issue with lots of backspace is the back side of the wheel crashes into stuff, straight ahead and/or when turning.
taller wheels have more room to avoid this.
trial-and-error, maybe stick some foam rubber to the inside and see how much room you have.

 

[Kylem40]

I was trying to measure the back spacing last night on the stock 14s and it looked to be around 4 inchs or less. I couldn't get a good measurement because I didnt have anything short enough to sit on the back of the rim but i have time today so I'm going to double check that today.

 

[Blmpkn]

Could always buy one of these

Percy's High Performance 01201 Taylor Cable WheelRite Wheel and Tire Fitment Tools | Summit Racing

Free Shipping - Taylor Cable WheelRite Wheel and Tire Fitment Tools with qualifying orders of $109. Shop Wheel and Tire Simulator Tools at Summit Racing.

www.summitracing.com

 

[Kylem40]

Could always buy one of these

Percy's High Performance 01201 Taylor Cable WheelRite Wheel and Tire Fitment Tools | Summit Racing

Free Shipping - Taylor Cable WheelRite Wheel and Tire Fitment Tools with qualifying orders of $109. Shop Wheel and Tire Simulator Tools at Summit Racing.

www.summitracing.com

Thanks! Doesnt have the best reviews but looks like most figured it out anyway so I'm sure I could figure it out. 70 dollars is a small price to pay when looking at a set of 4 wheels for 750 dollars haha.

 

[Blmpkn]

Thanks! Doesnt have the best reviews but looks like most figured it out anyway so I'm sure I could figure it out. 70 dollars is a small price to pay when looking at a set of 4 wheels for 750 dollars haha.

There's pricier units out there, but I'm sure for everything but an all out stance nation style setup and the millimeter accuracy they require this would do just fine.

 

[vkray1]

Can someone post a link to the wheel fitment guide?
Thanks!