Will 35s Fit on a Stock Ram 1500? A Comprehensive Guide

The burning question on every Ram 1500 owner’s mind: Will 35-inch tires fit on a stock Ram 1500? The short answer is: maybe, but probably not without some caveats. It largely depends on the specific tire width, your truck’s trim level, and your tolerance for potential rubbing. Let’s dive into the details.

The Nuances of 35s on a Stock Ram 1500

While a 35-inch tire can technically be mounted on your stock Ram 1500’s wheels, actual fitment is far more complicated than just the tire diameter. You’ll need to consider several factors:

• Tire Width: A 35×12.50R20 tire (a common 35″ size) is significantly wider than the stock tires. This increased width is the primary culprit behind rubbing issues. Narrower 35s, like a 35×11.50, have a better chance of fitting without modification.
• Wheel Offset: Your factory wheels likely have an offset that tucks the tires inward. This helps with aerodynamics and prevents debris from being flung onto the sides of the truck. However, it also exacerbates rubbing when you install wider tires.
• Trim Level: Certain Ram 1500 trims, particularly those with the air suspension, might offer slightly more clearance in their highest setting. However, even with air suspension, rubbing is still possible, especially during off-road articulation.
• Rubbing: Expect rubbing, especially at full steering lock and while driving over bumps or inclines. The most common rub points are the inner fender liners and the upper control arms.
• Driving Style: Aggressive driving and off-roading will significantly increase the likelihood and severity of rubbing.

In short, slapping on 35s without any modifications often leads to a frustrating experience of constant rubbing and potentially compromised handling.

Solutions to Consider

If you’re determined to run 35s on your stock Ram 1500, here are a few solutions to explore:

• Leveling Kit: A leveling kit raises the front of your truck by 1.5 to 2.5 inches. This is the most common and cost-effective solution for creating enough clearance to minimize rubbing. However, even with a leveling kit, some minor trimming may still be required.
• Wheel Spacers: Wheel spacers push the wheels outward, providing more clearance between the tire and the upper control arm. Be cautious when using wheel spacers, as they can negatively affect wheel bearing life and potentially cause other suspension issues if not installed and torqued correctly.
• Minor Trimming: In many cases, simply trimming the inner fender liners can eliminate the majority of rubbing. This is a relatively easy and inexpensive solution, but requires careful execution to avoid damaging the liners or exposing sensitive components. A heat gun and a sharp utility knife are your friends here.
• Aftermarket Wheels: Choosing wheels with a different offset can significantly improve clearance. A lower offset (or even a negative offset) will push the wheels outward, reducing rubbing on the upper control arm and inner fender. However, be mindful of excessively wide stances, as they can negatively impact handling and increase the risk of damage to the truck’s body panels.
• Air Suspension Adjustments (If Equipped): Ram 1500s with air suspension allow you to raise the truck for increased clearance. While this helps, it’s not a foolproof solution, and rubbing may still occur during more extreme driving conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the biggest tire I can fit on a stock Ram 1500 without any modifications?

Generally, a 33-inch tire is considered the safest bet for a completely stock Ram 1500. Even with 33s, some minor trimming may be necessary, especially on trucks with less favorable wheel offsets.

2. Will 35s affect my Ram 1500’s fuel economy?

Yes, installing 35-inch tires will affect your fuel economy. Larger tires are heavier and require more energy to rotate, resulting in a decrease in MPG. Expect to see a drop of 1-3 MPG, possibly more depending on your driving habits.

3. How does tire width impact fitment compared to tire diameter?

Tire width is arguably more critical than diameter when determining fitment. A wider tire is more likely to rub on the upper control arms and fender liners, even if the overall diameter is only slightly larger than stock.

4. Are there specific Ram 1500 trim levels that handle 35s better than others?

Trim levels with factory air suspension have an advantage, as you can raise the truck for increased clearance. However, even these trims may require modifications to completely eliminate rubbing with 35s. The Rebel trim often has slightly more inherent clearance.

5. What’s the best way to measure for tire clearance on my Ram 1500?

The most accurate way to measure for tire clearance is to turn the steering wheel fully in both directions and visually inspect the distance between the tire and any potential rub points (fender liners, upper control arms, etc.). Pay close attention to the inside edge of the tire, as this is where rubbing is most likely to occur. You can also use a measuring tape to get precise measurements.

6. Will installing 35s void my Ram 1500’s warranty?

Installing 35s may void your warranty, but it depends on the specific situation. If the larger tires directly cause damage to your truck’s suspension, drivetrain, or other components, the dealership could deny warranty coverage for those specific repairs. However, simply installing larger tires doesn’t automatically void the entire warranty. It’s always best to consult with your dealership to understand their policies.

7. What tools do I need for trimming the fender liners?

For trimming fender liners, you’ll need a heat gun, a sharp utility knife or rotary tool, and potentially some clamps or screws to re-secure any loose sections of the liner after trimming. Safety glasses are also highly recommended.

8. How do I choose the right leveling kit for my Ram 1500?

When choosing a leveling kit, consider the desired amount of lift, your budget, and the type of driving you do. Spacer kits are the most affordable but offer the least amount of performance enhancement. Coil spring leveling kits provide a more comfortable ride and better handling, but are more expensive. Research different brands and read reviews before making a purchase.

9. What are the pros and cons of using wheel spacers?

Pros: Increased tire clearance, improved aesthetics (wider stance).

Cons: Potential for reduced wheel bearing life, increased stress on suspension components, potential safety concerns if not installed correctly.

10. How does changing my wheel offset affect my Ram 1500’s handling?

Changing the wheel offset can affect your Ram 1500’s handling. A wider stance (lower or negative offset) can improve stability but may also make the steering feel heavier and less precise. It can also increase wear and tear on wheel bearings and other suspension components.

11. What should I do if I experience excessive rubbing after installing 35s?

If you experience excessive rubbing, re-evaluate your tire size, wheel offset, and leveling kit. Consider further trimming of the fender liners, installing wheel spacers (with caution), or even downsizing to a smaller tire size if necessary.

12. Will 35s affect my Ram 1500’s speedometer and odometer accuracy?

Yes, installing 35s will affect your speedometer and odometer accuracy. The larger tires will cause your truck to travel further for each rotation of the wheels, resulting in an underestimation of your speed and mileage. You can correct this by using a programmer or having your dealership recalibrate the speedometer.