I am looking for information as to the possibility of installing 17 x 7.5 factory wheels off an 2003 Explorer XLT on to my 2000 Ford Explorer Sport 2 door. I have purchased a single 17 X 7.5 wheel off ebay to test fit. THe good news is that the bolt pattern at 43 -44 mm is compatible with the 4.5 " bolt pattern of the factory 16 X 7 on my 2000 sport. It seems to bolt right up - I have tried this. However- the larger overall diameter of the 17 " wheel puts it very close to the upper A-arm suspension and ball joint. Now- this is a bare wheel- no tire is mounted. Seeing that the tread width of the recommended 245- 70r -17 tire is approximately 9- 10 inches and the the close proximity of the rim to the upper A-arm ball joint & suspension- I am concerned about possible interference or lack of fit due to tire width on the 2000 Sport. Also- the tire that would actually be preferred for fitment is 255-65R- 17 or 265-65R- 17 wich is definitley a 10" tread width on a 7.5" -8.0 " rim width. I have consulted a Hollander interchange manual as well- the 2002 and up 17 X 7.5 wheels are not listed as compatible with the 2000-2003 Sport or Sport trac. HAs anyone tried this swap? And if so- have you been successfull with the fit and lack of interference ? This seems to be a natural if the swap works but if not- well it's a good idea in theory. Any help would be appreciated . Thanks.
NOte:- Talked to some service techs and partsman that I know & trust here at the local Ford delaership. None of them could say if this works as they had never seen it done- but all agreed its a great idea - if it works.
NOte:- Talked to some service techs and partsman that I know & trust here at the local Ford delaership. None of them could say if this works as they had never seen it done- but all agreed its a great idea - if it works.
