What size Wheels for a 1998?

[Weedo]

I recently bought my 3rd Explorer. This one is a 1998 XLT V8 2wd. I have the stock 15" rims that are nearly flawless, but would love to upgrade to a 16" or 17". I'm thinking maybe a 6 or so year newer Explorer or even F150 FX4 style rim in the 5x4.5 size.

I searched some threads but couldn't find exactly what I'm looking for. I know it's out here somewhere though!

What size and offset can I get away with? I think the newer rims would sit inbound too far (like a +30 offset) and I'd either need a high quality spacer, or just a different wheel all together. Over the years I've upgraded cars/trucks to the newer style wheels but kept them "stock" or in the family so the look isn't too different than stock.

Thanks for any input/help/advice!

 

[BradR]

Tortion twist, shackles, 26" on rubberbands.

 

[Weedo]

Tortion twist, shackles, 26" on rubberbands.

I think I just threw up in my mouth...

 

[corkey]

how about a 3rd gen wheel like these, ??
they are 16 inch,

 

[ahodges]

Nice looking truck

 

[Weedo]

how about a 3rd gen wheel like these, ??
they are 16 inch,

Yes, exactly, something like that. I really like the FX4 wheels on the F150's as well but I'm not sure if the hub/backspacing is the same as the Explorer wheels of the same years.?.? I hate to have to use a spacer but I think it's the only way if I go with a newer Ford wheel.

 

[corkey]

f 150 wheels will not fit , wrong bolt pattern, ,
the 3rd gen Explorer wheels are a direct bolt on, no spacers or adapters,,

 

[Weedo]

f 150 wheels will not fit , wrong bolt pattern, ,
the 3rd gen Explorer wheels are a direct bolt on, no spacers or adapters,,

What year are the 3rd gen Explorers from and to? I tried this before with my old '98 and the 2004 Explorer rims (might not be 3rd gen?) sat in so far it looked goofy. I believe we (and Discount Tire) figured the 2004 rims were about 40mm inbound of the '98 rims, requiring a spacer.

 

[Weedo]

Anyone else?

 

[turtlesdove3]

Anyone else?

3rd generation are usually much opted ones. It would sit perfectly but get what you're looking for since you'll be dealing with it.

 

[Duster Doug]

hi all - just wondering about a similair issue I'm having.

I have a chance to get some free Ford EX 16" stock rims with larger 255/70/16 tires for my 2000 XLT which currently has 15" stock rims with 235/75/15 tires.

Would I be able to replace my 15" rims/tires with the 16" rims/tires without any issues/ concerns??

thanks in adance

 

[ahodges]

If the 16" rims came from another explorer or ranger then yes those rims and tires will fit.

 

[Toucan]

Ok, I have stock 15" chrome wheels. The neighbors dogs have really pissed them an me...! I need to replace them. (If someone can suggest a good cleaner to bring back the shine) My issued is 15" X what????? - 7" 8" ?? Do I need to take off a wheel to measure it. What is the right size. '98 Exp - XLT.

 

[drdoom]

15x7

 

[ahodges]

Use eagle one aluminum alloy cleaner to clean them. That stuff works great and doesn't hurt the finish.

 

[Toucan]

Use eagle one aluminum alloy cleaner to clean them. That stuff works great and doesn't hurt the finish.

Thanks, that one had been proposed to me here.

Tks drdoom!!

Cheers