03 needs an elevation adjustment

I have searched and read everything on the board(Newbies tend to need to always start with that phrase is some of what I learned) I purchase an 03 Yesterday and and planning on buying the Calmini Lift. The question which I have found puzzling is Tire Size.

I have read a number of post (5 or more) which say you can fit 32" tires with minor trimming.

I have read a number of posts about 285/75/16 being tough to fit in and any time someone says the number 33 everyone tells them they are an idiot.

Is a 32" tire the largest size I can go without a body lift?

If so then really what are teh benefits Gained by pouring $1000 into suspension components If the same clearance for tires(therefore ground clearance) can be gained in stock form. Why not just improve the components you have? (torsion bars/Shocks/etc)

Thanks for your knowledge and replies.

BTW it is a grumpy forum that includes and in their instant gremlins
Sounds like an adventure :p

well, by adding the 3 inch lift kit, you would have 3 extra inches, of course the tire clearance is the same but the extra 3 inches can make a difference, just depends on what you will be doing, i mean, if your doing some minor muddin, you prolly won't need a kit, but if you like to get buck wild without worries, i would get a lift =\

hope this helps some

So the Lift carries the truck 3 inches higher over the axle/ifs which allows greater tire size due to the added room. Are the wheels wells (front to back) the limiting factor after the lift is installed?

Basically, I am interested in putting a 285/75/16 BFG AT on my XTERRA. I need to know what hoops I am gonna have to jump through to do it and if a change this large is gonna put the truck on par with a Hummer as far as acceleration

well, i mean yeah, there are some problems with putting some massive tires on. By putting on bigger tires, you will probably have to drop the mud flaps, and maybe some minor trimming, but nothing too big, what you have to do is when you get the tires, turn the wheels all the way to the right, check for rubbing, then to the left and do the same. the trimming usually isn't anything big or noticable unless you are paying attention.

Don't forget to adjust the steering stops

i have the stage 3 SLR lift on my X and am running 33x10.5x15 BFG's. a 285/75/15 tire is approx a 33.1" tire after doing the math, but each tire size differs from brand to brand. you'll have to do alot of trimming on the stock bumper, remove the mudflaps and cut the rear front wheelwell plastic where the mudflap connected to. i have an ARB so i only had to cut the rear of the front wheelwell.

If all my parts come in this week, Jason (Ag_xterra) and I will be doing this exact thing to my truck this weekend. Actually, I'll most likely be a go-for. I will be adding Goodyear MT/R 285/75/16 and the new econo SLR lift. I will let you know how it goes.

That definitely helps. I am planningon getting the Calmini bumber but that is a month or so off. What made you choose the ARB?

because it looks better on the 2001 models and at the time i got it there was nothing else available. i still like the ARB because of the various locations to mount lights and such.

Also a big "key" is staying with the stock wheels. No one makes a correct offset and that will cause rubbing issues for 31"+ tires.

I went almost two years without a lift and 31" tires. I caved into peer presure in getting lift! But it does help get me over obstacles better, no dragging body parts and no rubbing wheels on full compression.

A suspension lift will increase wheel travel over stock. Usually 2-3 inches in the front and 4-6 inches in the rear.

I'll take suspension travel over a larger tire anytime.

Thanks for all the input. I think I have amended my plan and will go with the 265/75/16's