Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

**IT Cowboy** · 02-04-2025, 02:37 PM

Is putting on tires larger than came stock and /or putting on modern rims a cardinal sin and would I be shunned

I have 235/75/15s and I think they look small and am considering a 17 in. wheel and tire.

Pics of larger tires / wheels if you have them, please

**Steeveedee** · 02-04-2025, 04:44 PM

It's your truck, do what you want. Some wheel manufacturers have a tool for putting their wheels on your truck (pictures, of course). We see all kinds here, from slammed to raised into the sky. I prefer stock, but that's just me.

**Jason Banks** · 02-04-2025, 04:45 PM

I'm sure it is sacrilege to some. But do what YOU want, it is your truck.

This message board skews older and gives less love to bigger wheels.

Bigger wheels and tires are still a popular upgrade.

You can get 20 inch(or larger?) wheels that imitate what is on your truck now.
https://www.coyswheel.com/product-pa...uminum-6061-t6

https://www.us-mags.com/us-mag-1pc-scottsdale

**Jason Banks** · 02-04-2025, 04:47 PM

Here's another in steel that you can get in 18
https://detroitsteelwheel.com/delray/

weq92f · 02-04-2025, 05:16 PM

.

Each their own here but the skew is definitely more toward stock. I recently had a brush with the possibility of having to replace my wheels due to a massive pot hole. Taking price into consideration I settled on off the shelf units not unlike what Mr. Banks has posted above. The larger diameter ralley looking type wheels or a polished 5 spoke similar to what I have now.

Turns out I escaped as the wheel was repairable.

If you're gonna use the truck, the 20+ wheels are not a good choice IMO. Otherwise, if it's cruise, show and shine mostly then go for it!

Hth,

-Kevin

chappys4life · 02-04-2025, 05:15 PM

Mine came with 17s when i bought it. When the tires go I will probably go back to 15s but they are not bad. They fit the truck style at least

**1970cstblazer** · 02-04-2025, 06:57 PM

Not too many non original wheels I like on this gen except the old style aluminum mag slots.

I kept the original optional 16.5" wheels on my Blazer and my Cheyenne. My future project 1970 K20 will also have the wide 16.5" white steel wheels sans hubcaps.

D.B · 02-04-2025, 09:41 PM

My 72 C20 Cheyenne Super has OEM 16-inch steel wheels from a 94. I had them widened so I could put a wider BFG tire on them. I kept the center caps but had to make a stainless spacer for the rear because of the protruding hubs on the Dana 60. I wanted to keep a stock look and nothing too wild. I got what I wanted and very happy how it turned out.

Name: C20 06152022-2.jpg
Views: 334
Size: 70.5 KB

Name: C20 06152022-2.jpg
Views: 334
Size: 70.5 KB

**Rust_never_sleeps** · 02-04-2025, 09:49 PM

My neighbor has a light blue F100 with 5 spokes and low-profile tires that's a crime against humanity, but I'm not one to judge others ;-)

**IT Cowboy** · 02-04-2025, 10:42 PM

I have a weak spot for the Mickey Thompson Classic II wheels. I had a set on my Jeep but I had them clear powder coated and they wiped clean.

**57taskforce** · 02-05-2025, 11:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IT Cowboy

I have a weak spot for the Mickey Thompson Classic II wheels. I had a set on my Jeep but I had them clear powder coated and they wiped clean.

You have good taste!

72c20customcamper · 02-05-2025, 03:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 57taskforce

You have good taste!

I had them on my 68 for a couple of years

**Steeveedee** · 02-04-2025, 10:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rust_never_sleeps

My neighbor has a light blue F100 with 5 spokes and low-profile tires that's a crime against humanity, but I'm not one to judge others ;-)

67ChevroletDude · 02-04-2025, 10:57 PM

I'm on 255/60 R17's had some minor rubbing on the rear
Name: snap-10.jpg
Views: 318
Size: 52.5 KB

**Steeveedee** · 02-04-2025, 11:39 PM

Hot Stuff! I love the whole stance and colors!

**Already Gone** · 02-06-2025, 03:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 67ChevroletDude

I'm on 255/60 R17's had some minor rubbing on the rear
Attachment 2413080

How far down are u at the back of the truck. I have 2 1/2 drop spindle up front and 3 inch drop spring out back with 255/60 17's ( 17 x 8 rims ) on all 4 corner and no rubbing issues front or back.

**Already Gone** · 02-06-2025, 03:19 PM

You could also go with the original full wheel covers that look great on the trucks. Get a set of 15 x 7 rally wheels and paint em white and then a set of the P01's and still use your 235/75 15 tires, that's what I used on my truck ( pictured ) for many years or same set up but with 15 x8 rallys and 255/70 15 inch tires on all 4 corners. Bottom line is that it is your truck so do what pleases you.

67ChevroletDude · 02-06-2025, 03:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Already Gone

How far down are u at the back of the truck. I have 2 1/2 drop spindle up front and 3 inch drop spring out back with 255/60 17's ( 17 x 8 rims ) on all 4 corner and no rubbing issues front or back.

I’m sitting on a 2/4 drop, 2” with spring and 2” block in the rear. The rubbing is from the tire slightly rubbing the inner bed tub/floor, not hitting the top of the well. I pushed my offset as far in as I could go to tuck the tires, as well as keep me from having to buy a pair of rims to make the front look correct from the increased track of the disc brakes.

**Fbks_Cruiser** · 02-04-2025, 11:57 PM

Like others have said. It’s your truck do what you like. But I’m partial to the stock look and don’t care for wheels bigger than 17-18”. Older vehicles were designed with taller sidewall tires to flex and cushion.

**Richard** · 02-05-2025, 04:09 AM

I am using 17x10 classic style mags on my K10. Swapped to 3/4-1 ton axles so wheels are 8 lug now. Stock 3/4 ton was 16.5" wheels. 16.5" tires are limited with choices. So it is a stock look to me. I would challenge anyone to tell the difference between a 16.5" wheel and a 17" from anything but up close. Now a lowered 2wd will look more modern with larger than 15" wheels. A lot with larger rims look fine to me As said use what you want it is your truck. I do wonder why I see the 24"+ low profile ultra wide wheels sticking out of the fenders on some 4x4 trucks? Looks ridiculous to me, but I do not care.

72c20customcamper · 02-05-2025, 10:52 AM

It your truck put what you like on it lots of trucks on this site with big rims and low profile tires . Go to any truck show and the majority of rides sport non factory wheels . I went with 15 inch US Mags and 275/70r15 rears 225/70r15 up front I just like the old school look

Shark_13 · 02-09-2025, 09:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 72c20customcamper

It your truck put what you like on it lots of trucks on this site with big rims and low profile tires . Go to any truck show and the majority of rides sport non factory wheels . I went with 15 inch US Mags and 275/70r15 rears 225/70r15 up front I just like the old school look

Your truck looks great!

Sicklajoie · 02-05-2025, 08:49 PM

I put 16 x 7 F*rd van rims on both my C/20's.
I'm all for keeping the factory look.

SCOTI · 02-06-2025, 10:30 AM

Not all larger diameter wheels are equal. Some are ok, some are fuggly.

The newer (after 2000) OE style wheels are not so great on the classics because of offset requirements.

Many lower price point larger diameter aftermarket wheels are not that attractive on older vehicles as the look out of place.

A larger diameter old school wheel can work depending on the 'theme' of the truck.

**IT Cowboy** · 02-06-2025, 10:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SCOTI

Not all larger diameter wheels are equal. Some are ok, some are fuggly.

Wait that describes me, I have a face for radio

02-04-2025, 02:37 PM	#1
IT Cowboy Active Member Join Date: Jan 2025 Location: Clarkdale, Arizona in a van down by the river Posts: 140	Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege Is putting on tires larger than came stock and /or putting on modern rims a cardinal sin and would I be shunned I have 235/75/15s and I think they look small and am considering a 17 in. wheel and tire. Pics of larger tires / wheels if you have them, please __________________ '72 C10 / 402 ___________________________________________ Freedom isn't safe, it requires you to take responsibility for your own life, your own safety, and your own success. It carries with it the possibility of failure and the understanding that you're working without out a safety net. If you give the state the responsibility for any of these you also give up the freedom that accompanies the responsibility.

02-04-2025, 04:44 PM	#2
Steeveedee Who Changed This? Join Date: Jan 2013 Location: Simi Valley, CA Posts: 10,841	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege It's your truck, do what you want. Some wheel manufacturers have a tool for putting their wheels on your truck (pictures, of course). We see all kinds here, from slammed to raised into the sky. I prefer stock, but that's just me. __________________ ~Steven '70 Chevy 3/4T Longhorn CST 402/400/3.56 Custom Camper Simi Valley, CA

02-04-2025, 04:45 PM	#3
Jason Banks Senior Member Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: TX Posts: 1,645	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege I'm sure it is sacrilege to some. But do what YOU want, it is your truck. This message board skews older and gives less love to bigger wheels. Bigger wheels and tires are still a popular upgrade. You can get 20 inch(or larger?) wheels that imitate what is on your truck now. https://www.coyswheel.com/product-pa...uminum-6061-t6 https://www.us-mags.com/us-mag-1pc-scottsdale

02-04-2025, 04:47 PM	#4
Jason Banks Senior Member Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: TX Posts: 1,645	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege Here's another in steel that you can get in 18 https://detroitsteelwheel.com/delray/

02-04-2025, 05:16 PM	#5
weq92f Registered User Join Date: Oct 2016 Location: Dallas Texas Posts: 3,285	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege . Each their own here but the skew is definitely more toward stock. I recently had a brush with the possibility of having to replace my wheels due to a massive pot hole. Taking price into consideration I settled on off the shelf units not unlike what Mr. Banks has posted above. The larger diameter ralley looking type wheels or a polished 5 spoke similar to what I have now. Turns out I escaped as the wheel was repairable. If you're gonna use the truck, the 20+ wheels are not a good choice IMO. Otherwise, if it's cruise, show and shine mostly then go for it! Hth, -Kevin __________________ 67 C10 fleet fuel injected '70 402, 700r4, 3.73 posi 07 335 sport turbo 6sp 94 Trans Am GT LT1 6sp posi -- sold after 22yrs 99 540 sport V8 6sp -- sold 73 240z L24 4sp -- given to friend 68 C10 step 350/350 3.73 open -- sold

02-04-2025, 05:15 PM	#6
chappys4life Registered User Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Austin, TX Posts: 86	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege Mine came with 17s when i bought it. When the tires go I will probably go back to 15s but they are not bad. They fit the truck style at least Attached Images

02-04-2025, 06:57 PM	#7
1970cstblazer All stock and staying that way Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Elkland, PA Posts: 1,990	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege Not too many non original wheels I like on this gen except the old style aluminum mag slots. I kept the original optional 16.5" wheels on my Blazer and my Cheyenne. My future project 1970 K20 will also have the wide 16.5" white steel wheels sans hubcaps. __________________ 1970 K/5 Blazer CST 4WD, TOTM winner December 2024! Medium Bronze, 93k ACT. miles, 350, 4 speed, rear positraction, 16.5" x 8.25" HD Kelsey Hayes wheel option, tilt, tach, vacuum, AM/FM, manual throttle...Dad ordered and purchased new 4/70. Currently frame off restoration finally getting close to completion.. 1972 Cheyenne Super 20 2WD, DK Blue/White, 90K ACT. miles, 402, TH400, 4.10 open, tilt, tach, vacuum, A/C, AM/FM, manual throttle.. A mostly original paint never rusted Texas survivor... 2017 Sierra 1500 SLT 4WD, Black, 45k miles, 5.3, 6L80E, 3.42 LS, 20" polished wheels, everything but moonroof and 6.2... 2019 Canyon SLT 4WD, White, 62k miles, 3.6, 8L45, 3.23 LS, 18" wheels

02-04-2025, 09:41 PM	#8
D.B Registered User Join Date: Jul 2021 Location: Keller, Texas Posts: 586	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege My 72 C20 Cheyenne Super has OEM 16-inch steel wheels from a 94. I had them widened so I could put a wider BFG tire on them. I kept the center caps but had to make a stainless spacer for the rear because of the protruding hubs on the Dana 60. I wanted to keep a stock look and nothing too wild. I got what I wanted and very happy how it turned out. __________________ Darrell 1972 Cheyenne Super C20 (My Fun Drive) 2000 S10 Xtreme (My Drag Truck)

02-04-2025, 09:49 PM	#9
Rust_never_sleeps Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2022 Location: San Ramon,CA Posts: 666	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege My neighbor has a light blue F100 with 5 spokes and low-profile tires that's a crime against humanity, but I'm not one to judge others ;-) __________________ 1970 C10 Custom longbed 350/350 Code: __ ______\|__]\____ ....\|___(o)_____(o)_]

02-04-2025, 10:42 PM	#10
IT Cowboy Active Member Join Date: Jan 2025 Location: Clarkdale, Arizona in a van down by the river Posts: 140	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege I have a weak spot for the Mickey Thompson Classic II wheels. I had a set on my Jeep but I had them clear powder coated and they wiped clean. __________________ '72 C10 / 402 ___________________________________________ Freedom isn't safe, it requires you to take responsibility for your own life, your own safety, and your own success. It carries with it the possibility of failure and the understanding that you're working without out a safety net. If you give the state the responsibility for any of these you also give up the freedom that accompanies the responsibility.

02-04-2025, 10:57 PM	#14
67ChevroletDude Registered User Join Date: Aug 2016 Location: Azle, Texas Posts: 42	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege I'm on 255/60 R17's had some minor rubbing on the rear

02-04-2025, 11:39 PM	#15
Steeveedee Who Changed This? Join Date: Jan 2013 Location: Simi Valley, CA Posts: 10,841	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege Hot Stuff! I love the whole stance and colors! __________________ ~Steven '70 Chevy 3/4T Longhorn CST 402/400/3.56 Custom Camper Simi Valley, CA

02-06-2025, 03:19 PM	#17
Already Gone 70+ ( Old Skool Club ) Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan ,Canada Posts: 9,158	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege You could also go with the original full wheel covers that look great on the trucks. Get a set of 15 x 7 rally wheels and paint em white and then a set of the P01's and still use your 235/75 15 tires, that's what I used on my truck ( pictured ) for many years or same set up but with 15 x8 rallys and 255/70 15 inch tires on all 4 corners. Bottom line is that it is your truck so do what pleases you. Attached Images __________________ 1972 C10 Custom/Deluxe 613 Highlander 406/700R4 1999 White Tahoe LS 4x2 with Z56 Police Package 1992 K1500 GMC Suburban Members I have personally met: MusicMan70 - HeavyD - ChewyChevy67 - StingRay -71SWB4x4 - 67 Burb - DeadheadNM - too much stuff - bc65 - das601 " Circumsatances Do Not Change Responsibility " " The Sky is not the Limit, Your Mind is." Marilyn Monroe .. RIP Charlie Watts 1941 - 2021

02-04-2025, 11:57 PM	#19
Fbks_Cruiser Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2016 Location: Fairbanks, AK Posts: 344	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege Like others have said. It’s your truck do what you like. But I’m partial to the stock look and don’t care for wheels bigger than 17-18”. Older vehicles were designed with taller sidewall tires to flex and cushion. __________________ 1972 GMC K2500 Super Custom Matt

02-05-2025, 04:09 AM	#20
Richard Senior Member Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Southern California Posts: 2,927	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege I am using 17x10 classic style mags on my K10. Swapped to 3/4-1 ton axles so wheels are 8 lug now. Stock 3/4 ton was 16.5" wheels. 16.5" tires are limited with choices. So it is a stock look to me. I would challenge anyone to tell the difference between a 16.5" wheel and a 17" from anything but up close. Now a lowered 2wd will look more modern with larger than 15" wheels. A lot with larger rims look fine to me As said use what you want it is your truck. I do wonder why I see the 24"+ low profile ultra wide wheels sticking out of the fenders on some 4x4 trucks? Looks ridiculous to me, but I do not care. __________________ Richard 1972 K10 Custom Deluxe SWB Fleetside My build https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=800746



Register or Log In To remove these advertisements.

02-05-2025, 10:52 AM	#21
72c20customcamper Registered User Join Date: Jul 2018 Location: Catskill Mountains,NY Posts: 8,837	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege It your truck put what you like on it lots of trucks on this site with big rims and low profile tires . Go to any truck show and the majority of rides sport non factory wheels . I went with 15 inch US Mags and 275/70r15 rears 225/70r15 up front I just like the old school look Attached Images __________________ Mark 72 c20 custom camper Husky edition, 66 SS396 Chevelle 1964 Hawk, 63 Avanti,62 lark 1969 AMX , 1968 c20 stepside ,85 K20 1977 Suburban sold 68 anniversary. Last edited by 72c20customcamper; 02-05-2025 at 11:24 AM.

02-05-2025, 08:49 PM	#23
Sicklajoie The Niner Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Broad Brook, CT Posts: 2,505	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege I put 16 x 7 F*rd van rims on both my C/20's. I'm all for keeping the factory look. Attached Images __________________ "A good racer is one whose head is in communication with his balls." - Richie Evans 1970 C/20 - 402/TH400/3.54s - 74K miles 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 - Wheatland Yellow Niner Progression Thread: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=697183 Classic Trucks article: https://www.motortrend.com/features/...et-c20-driven/

02-06-2025, 10:30 AM	#24
SCOTI Registered User Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: DALLAS,TX Posts: 22,104	Re: Is putting on larger tires and modern rims a sacrilege Not all larger diameter wheels are equal. Some are ok, some are fuggly. The newer (after 2000) OE style wheels are not so great on the classics because of offset requirements. Many lower price point larger diameter aftermarket wheels are not that attractive on older vehicles as the look out of place. A larger diameter old school wheel can work depending on the 'theme' of the truck. __________________ 67SWB-B.B.RetroRod 64SWB-Recycle 89CCDually-Driver/Tow Truck 99CCSWB Driver All Fleetsides @rattlecankustoms in IG Building a small, high rpm engine with the perfect bore, stroke and rod ratio is very impressive. It's like a highly skilled Morrocan sword fighter with a Damascus Steel Scimitar..... *Cubic inches is like Indiana Jones with a cheap pistol.*

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Switch to Linear Mode Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode

Register or Log In To remove these advertisements.