New Member Tire Problems

Hi I'm a new member from Canada.

I'm looking for help with a specific problem.  My 4Runner is a 2003 Sport Edition, with the 17" rims and the oversized front brakes.  I was hoping to put 16" winter tires on 16" steel wheels and actually bought a very nice set of slightly used 265/70/16 Alpin 4x4s.  Problem is:  Toyota's 16" steel wheel does not clear the brake calipers at the front.

Any advice?  Does anyone know of a 16" wheel (preferably cheap because it is for winter use only) that clears the Sport Edition front brakes??

ericd38326.9505787037

Welcome, Eric!  Most likely, you'll just have to buy 17's.  If your 4Runner came stock with 17's, then that's what needs to go on.  Unless of course you want to take the time and money to change out the rotors to a smaller diameter, thus moving the caliper closer to the center... other than that, I'd say just find some tires that'll fit 17's...

Thanks Kevin.  My last hope is to create enough room for the calipers by adding a 5mm spacer between the wheel and the rotor.  Otherwise, I'm giving up on 16" steels.

heh heh, well good luck on it!  tell us how it comes out too!

the thing with the spacers is a good idea im sure they make some realy durable one but i think for the money if you know what your doing with cars it would probably be cheaper to change the calipers the buy another set of 17s becouse i think they are pretty steep just for a winter wheel good luck though

the other thing with the smaller wheels is you will decrease brake ventilation especially if its very close.  I have seen folks go as far as to even grind a caliper to allow a smaller wheel to fit.  friggin idiots.  if you do use spacers be safe and make sure your lugnuts grab enough thread still.

Yeah, I kinda figured there would be no easy solution.  I sold my 16" winters and got 17' Nokian WRs - they are pricey but probably the best all season tire in the winter.  So far I'm very happy with them.  Thanks for the advice anyway.