Yukon XL 2500 Wheel Selection

[dagnabbitt]

I have an interesting question, at least, I think it is interesting. I have a 1968 C20 I am building, and one of the early purchases I made was a set of new tires, 235 85 16's, mounted on eight lug Econoline wheels that I got for free. I did it almost exclusively because I could not stand to look at the old (incorrect) split rims and tubed tractor tires. I had the money, at the time.

Here's the thing: I am now two years into this project and have maybe two miles on these wheels. Meanwhile, my 2010 GMC Yukon XL is in need of new tires and I am feeling the pinch after a crate engine purchase, etc. I see modern HD2500 wheels on the 67-72's all the time... is there a reason why I cannot do the reverse? Has anyone put wheels like these on a Yukon 2500 before?

The tire profile between the 235 85 16's and the factory 265 70 17's is virtually identical: aside from being slightly narrower they are nearly exactly the same height/diameter and being 10 ply they would work well. Eyeballing the brakes, I think that 16 inch wheels would fit. I would have to take a look at the backspacing/offset. But it would be great if anyone has done this before and could give me some tips.

I should mention that these are the nubless Econoline wheels so I think they would look good painted black with the modern 2010 hub hardware: I still plan to get nubbed ones for my 1968 since it will run OG dog dishes.

[Palf70Step]

The only thing I can think of is will the 16" wheels clear the Yukon's brake calipers. I had that problem on another vehicle. The 16s rubbed the caliper, while the 17" rim just cleared them. Other than that, they should work fine.

[dagnabbitt]

Thanks for the input! I am hoping that the brake calipers are the only issue. I think they will clear. But only one way to find out, I guess!

[eager_adventurer]

Love those basic steel rims. It's just like the Vision galvanized mod steel rims that I saw on 4wheelonline.