Are there any wider 16" 8 bolt rims available besides expensive after market rims? Looking to get 1-2" wider for the rear on my 96 3500 van. Thanks

 

I have no idea but near the top of this page there is a tire-rim calculator if you click on tools. Have you contacted Tire Rack they sell steel wheels and alloys.

 

Wider rims will get you less MPG. Have you looked at load range E tires? LT225/75R16-E in the Firestone TransForce HTs could do the job well. If you really are after a wider rim and tire, yes then get some aftermarket ones.

There is a Ram Van B3500 2000 van running around my town with the chrome 8-lug 16-inch rims. I've not been able to find it parked to see what rims and size of tires it uses. The rims have the hubs with the Dodge Ram on them. So, I assume they are OE Chrysler. Or the guy found a way to use Dodge Truck rims otherwise.

 

I have a 96 B3500, too.Try Summit Racing. I got aftermarket 8" steel wheels, in 17", and 15" (yes, 15"), they're around $90 or $100. They also have 16's. I went from 16 to 17, and then finally to 15. I was trying to get the wheel openings filled up and looking right. To me, anyway. I had to grind the front calipers down to get enough clearance for the 15's, which was a big hassle, but with the 275/60-15's, my van looks a whole lot better! Go with the 16's or 17's, so you won't have any clearance issues with the front brakes. Go with a wider tire, too. You won't have any clearance issues no matter what size tire you put on. You can go pretty wide and tall. You'll just be limited by the wheel width.