I have a 2003 Ram 1500 2wd, regular cab. I have not modified the suspension. Because the current tires do so poorly on wet, icy, or snowy roads I'm accelerating my plans to get new tires. My question is how big a tire can I go without modifying the suspension or lifting it? I plan to at least level it eventually. Do you think Nitto Terra Grapplers size 285/70/17 will fit ok? Thanks for your input. Jason

 

height wise you are fine. But what rims do you have? those tires are like 12.5in wide so you will not be able to run them with stock rims.

 

The specs say 11.46 wide and they can go on a 7.5 inch wide rim. What is the width of the stock rims dodge uses? I can measure the rim, but it's not fun with the tire still on it. I guess we could go with the 265/70 if we have to.

 

When i had my struck in stock suspension I was running 305/40/22s and i had no issues but that equaled about a 32" tire

 

tire sizes are very misleading, as stated size really means nothing unless you can find an actual size chart. My 35s run around 36.2in tall but the same tire (35/12.5 r20) also comes in a 34.4, just one number off in the stock number. Its rare for a tire to be the stated size. Stock 20s are around 9in but im not sure about the 17s

width on the rim isnt the main issue here, its width towards the upper control arm. If its too wide, it wont clear the edge of the UCA

 

Well I did find out that the 17 inch wheels are 17X8. Now I just need to determine if I'll have the needed clearance. If it only rubs during sharp turns, etc, I'll be ok until I can get it lifted. Of course that assumes it's hitting something that gets lifted out of the way.

 

you'll be okay with 285/75/17
In the FAQ's there's something there for lift and tire size

 

stock truck can fit 33x11.50