Help with 2003 Explorer Wheels

[Trinity5]

I've read over the forum pretty well but want a definite yes for my question. I would like to put on new wheels on my 2003 XLT. I just want the cheapie 15" Crager style soft 8s, basic black no frills. Mainly because they are way cheaper then the 16" or 17". I know the 16s or 17s will fit no problem, but I am getting both yes and no on the 15s. I was told the 15" was listed in as a replacement size but also everyone keeps saying the smallest size that can standard that year was 16". I'm mainly worried that the wheel and brakes won't fit together. If I order them up and they don't fit all my savings goes down the tube by sending them back.

Can anyone give me a definite answer that the 15" will or won't work and if yes what the best set up is. I want a 31" tire and was side as I can go; 265 or maybe 285 if I can handle a little rubbing. I have no lift or spacer yet.

Any help would be great. Thanks!

 

[43]

15" wont clear the brake caliper, so they wont work.

 

[Ronin8002]

265's will fit with no lift and may or may not rub a tiny bit depending on the type of tire and wheel backspace/offset.

285's require at least a 2.25" front/1.75" rear strut spacer lift and probably a 1.5" or 3" body lift. Only downside of the 285's is you won't be able to fit the spare in the normal place...you'll have to keep it in the cargo area, on a rack on the roof, or make a carrier.

A 265 will fit in the spare location just fine.

 

[Trinity5]

265's will fit with no lift and may or may not rub a tiny bit depending on the type of tire and wheel backspace/offset.

285's require at least a 2.25" front/1.75" rear strut spacer lift and probably a 1.5" or 3" body lift. Only downside of the 285's is you won't be able to fit the spare in the normal place...you'll have to keep it in the cargo area, on a rack on the roof, or make a carrier.

A 265 will fit in the spare location just fine.

Ok, thanks. Is there a standard backspace? I would want them to stick out a hair, but not too much. I would be looking at the 16" or 17" wheels, not sure 7" or 8". I think alot would depend on the tire but if I could max it out width wise, so 265. Not sure what that translates to in inches. I have seen guys talking about 31.5" inches by 10.5".