01 Explorer wheels on 02 XLT?

[The Rainmayker]

Yes I did my homework before asking this.

Will stock 15" wheels from an 01 fit on an 02 that came with 16" wheels?

The reason I am posting is because the seller told me that his 01 wheels would fit a 2002 XLT, however the research I have done gets me conflicting answers.

Some sources say they would work just fine, while others say the bolt pattern and fit around the brakes is completely different.

His wheels mounted 235/75/15 tires. The 02 has 235/70/16 tires.

What do you folks think?

 

[Kazer]

15 inch rims will not fit on a third gen (2002-2005) explorer without modifying all 4 calipers

 

[Kazer]

There were a few guys who ran 15s but had to grind down and round off the corners of their calipers and I believe, not sure, they had to remove the brake shields. Even then, a guy replaced his brake pads and the caliper became too large once again. If your pads are worn I would say throw the 15s on your truck and look where they could/will rub.
Gooduck, and post pics if you get them to work

 

[College Student]

i would say tell him u require a test fit and see if they will... hold air, fit calipers all those things if you are worried

 

[The Rainmayker]

Darn it, I forgot I had started this thread!

I was asking on behalf of a friend who has an 02, it is not my vehicle. He ended up just getting a set of stock wheels from a junkyard for dirt cheap.

Thanks to those who responded!

 

[RocketMan444]

Curious why you would want to remove the 16" and put 15" on the "X"? I have a 95 and I put 16" on it to get the better ride/ handling. Not an expert but 15" tires do not handle real well! Just my opinion.

 

[The Rainmayker]

Curious why you would want to remove the 16" and put 15" on the "X"? I have a 95 and I put 16" on it to get the better ride/ handling. Not an expert but 15" tires do not handle real well! Just my opinion.

The owner of the 02 wanted a set of snow tires, and a guy I work with had a set off of an 01, that came mounted on 15" stock wheels. For the price, it would have been a great deal if it had fit...oh well!