What To Consider When Upgrading Your Dodge RAM Off-Road Wheels & Tires
What should you consider when upgrading the wheels and tires on your Dodge Ram, or any off-roader or truck, really? Upgrading wheels and tires is one of the most common modifications done, and while it may seem straightforward, it isn't usually the case. Let's look at a few things to consider.
Maximum Tire and Rim Size
You can't fit as large a rim and tire size as you'd like to your Dodge Ram. Consult your owner's manual for the maximum stock rim and tire size that's permitted, and that's generally as far as you can go. If you want to install an even larger rim size then you may have to compromise with a lower profile tire to ensure that the overall maximum circumference of the wheel and tire combo remains within the manufacturer's specifications. There are online tire and wheel size calculators that you can use, or you can consult our friendly experts for advice.
Remember that there's also a minimum rim size, and you can't go below that, as your brake assemblies will not be accommodated, and you won't be able to install the smaller rim on your Ram. However, since 99% of people want to upsize and not downsize, this isn't usually an issue.
Mind you, we're not saying that you can't fit bigger rims and tires than the manufacturer's specifications. You can, but you will need to install a suspension lift, and possibly upgrades to the brake lines, driveshafts, axles, suspension, and fenders to accommodate the larger tires. Since your vehicle will ride higher, a step may also be required.
Number of Lugs and Pitch Circle Diameter (PCD)
How many lugs does your truck or off-roader use to secure the wheel to the vehicle? Older Dodge Ram and Ram pickups (pre-2018) used five lugs, while newer ones use six lugs. You can buy five-to-six lug adapters or vice-versa, but it's often better to just buy a set of rims that have the correct number of lug holes, as well as the right PCD. PCD is the diameter of an imaginary circle, if drawn through the center of all five lugs, and there are various PCDs, so check your Dodge Ram or Ram Pickup's owner's manual for the PCD. You may also find it written somewhere on your stock rims.
Offset and Backspacing
Offset and Backspacing typically determine how much your wheels sit inside the fenders or stick out of them. This is a very basic definition and there's much more to it, so you'd best consult an expert on the correct backspacing and offset for your specific model of Dodge Ram or Ram Pickup.
Type of Tire
The type of tire is also important, as it will depend on your usage scenario. For example, if you're an occasional off-roader but spend 90% of your time on paved roads, going for a full-blown set of mud tires or off-road tires will be a waste of money. They will be noisier on the pavement, and your vehicle will be thirstier at the pumps too. So think about your off-roading versus on-road usage ratio as well.