[greywolf]

Wheels for Dummies - 15 or 17 inch?

I have read quite a bit about wheels on this forum and have a basic understanding of offset and such. The problem is I do not have enough off road experience to really know what to choose.

In the old days driving the crew in a Jimmy to camp..well we just accepted what the boss put on the 3/4 ton 4x4. Seemed to work OK but I am up to being educated by you folks that know the new stuff.

I'm considering getting some 16" rims to go off road. Presently I have the stock 17" Dunlops. As I understand what I have read is that 16" gives more sidewall and thus more flex before popping or being damaged on the trail. Is that correct?

As I also understand, perhaps getting a steel rim like "Procomp 87" is a much more intelligent choice than a brushed aluminum bead lock style. (my preference for the visual factor). I'm not going to be trying to beat the hell out of the rig...but living in the Rockies means that most likely I'll be driving through some loose rock terrain trying to get where I want to go.

If it makes a difference, I will have a 3" lift kit installed druing the next week or so. (Old Man EMU). I have the kit...just need to find time to do the installation.

So if you can help me and perhaps other newbies sort this out...

I would like a bead lock look....but functionality before beauty is my choice.:cheers:

My intention is to swap the tires on a Thursday night before heading out for the weekend and then put the stock wheels back on Monday sometime. This is a second vehicle so I do not need it Monday morning.

Thanks for the help.

 

[greywolf]

If you want the functionality of a bead lock but still want to use it as a DD/ trail rig I suggest you get some internal bead lock, which works like the real bead locks, but are DOT approved and are easier to maintain.

It is not that I want a bead lock wheel, but I do like the street lock look. I may someday consider the internal bead lock for future. Thanks

Really I was just hopping that I would get a few opinions on whether 16 inch or 17 inch wheels were best for off-road use.

Also looking for input on steel versus alloy for casual off road use.

There are so many posts in the wheel section that trying to narrow down this information seems pretty difficult.