Wheel downsizing

[itsbo1313]

I’m seriously considering downsizing my 20 inch wheels to 17 or 18’s. Has anyone done this? Any issues?

 

[Foggy]

For what purpose would you go down to a 17 or 18 ???? Just curious

 

[adventurenali92]

For what purpose would you go down to a 17 or 18 ???? Just curious

Cheaper tires, more room for all terrain tread, better ride quality with more sidewall. The list goes on.

 

[Fless]

Whatever you decide to do, be sure to check for brake caliper clearance and proper offset. Doubt you'll have any with 17s or 18s, but it can be an issue.

 

[Matt_]

18s on my 2500xl. Also like more sidewall and less bling.

 

[itsbo1313]

I bought a set of 17’s from a 2014 Sierra for $200 with tpms

 

[itsbo1313]

And I’m doing for more sidewall since I live in a rural area now. And I never really liked the nnbs Denali wheels.

 

[Matt_]

Just a word of warning for picking aftermarket wheels in 17 or 18" sizes, most wheels are shown as designed for 20+ and usually with deep offsets. Before pulling the trigger on an aftermarket set, try to find pictures in the actual size and offset you're looking to purchase. A lot of the newer spoke designs look funny in the smaller sizes- "simple" tends to be better.

 

[adventurenali92]

Just a word of warning for picking aftermarket wheels in 17 or 18" sizes, most wheels are shown as designed for 20+ and usually with deep offsets. Before pulling the trigger on an aftermarket set, try to find pictures in the actual size and offset you're looking to purchase. A lot of the newer spoke designs look funny in the smaller sizes- "simple" tends to be better.

He said he got gm take off wheels which shouldn’t have offset issues.

 

[Larryjb]

I've found this site extremely useful. https://www.wheel-size.com/

17" is definitely an option, offset is 31 mm.

I downsized my Explorer from 18" to 16". 18" rims is not all that extreme, but more side wall give better protection from curbs (wife's truck.... don't tell her I wrote this...). I don't drive hard, and I haven't noticed any significant different in ride quality from 18" to 16". I image there will be a difference in feel from 20" to 17". I must be getting old, I like a little more cushioning for the ****.

I also wonder if the larger rims contributes to more frequent wheel bearing failures.