Could someone please explain to me what tire backspacing is all about. I really have no idea.

I've been looking around all sorts of web sites and there's a lot of talk about backspacing.

I think I understand it to be location of your tires on the axel or wheel?? in or out from your truck??

Any help please...just trying to gain some knowledge here.

 

Backspace is how much the back side of the wheel reaches toward the suspension components. My '03 apparently has a maximum backspace of around 5". The other factor is offset -- how much difference is there between the centerline of the wheel and the hub mounting surface. A negative number means the centerline is ouboard of the mounting surface. Too much of that will cause premature bearing failure and maybe other suspension problems. Positive offset is where the centerline of the wheel is inboard of the mounting surface. This can make the wheel look deeper, but I suppose too much positive offset combined with excess backspace will cause the wheel to contact parts of the suspension or steering gear. Not a good scenario. I don't know for sure, but logically the offset of a stock wheel is 0. I can't see the manufacturer setting it anywhere else, since it can produce serious problems with the bearings. Maybe positive offset is not so bad, damage-wise, but I'd think it could cause some weird handling characteristics. My truck's Dick Cepek DC-1s have a 4.53" backspace and -12mm offset. Hopefully, this will not be so much as to damage the bearings. Seems to handle a pinch better.

 

That's good to know, thanks Mike.

Those wheels you have a sick, by the way!!!!!!!!! I dig 'em. I was looking at those myself, but really only can afford tires for right now.

Let me ask you...how's you EZ down, EZ lift tailgate assist? I've been looking into that.

Also, what kind of tires do you have on your Cepeks?

 

Thank you. I chose the DC-1s 'cause I didn't want something I'd have to clean with a toothbrush . The EZ Lift and EZ Down work very well. If you plan to install an EZ Lift, you'll need toeat your Wheaties. That tailgate is pretty stout and awkward to maneuver. The EZ Down has poor documentation, so just take your time installing it. The tires are Bridgestone Alenza 265/70x17s. Great street tire, good traction wet and dry and decent treadwear rating.They were on it when I boughtthe truck last August. The PO putthem on at around 70K, Ithink he said.Yep, decent tires ain't cheap. I expect to get to around 115k to 120k before I have to replace these.