Hey guys,

A question about backspacing.

First off I imagine that backspacing refers to what the amount of space from the center of the wheel to the edge of the wheel. Is this correct?

Second. I am lifting a 97 Taco about 2.5 inches and placing 32 x 11.50 ATs on it. The wheels I have purchased have 3.75 inches of backspacing assuming the above is correct. Will these wheels give sufficient clearance for my tires and suspension components up front?

Thanks

You might rub on those 32s. As for the backspacing, I think you need to get 4.5. I'm unsure about the backspacing, but that sounds about right. I'm sure someone more knowledgeable than I will correct me if I'm wrong.

Sort of - depending on what you mean. Offset is related to the halfway point of the wheel and whether it's positive or negative -- offset is the more complex of the measurements and gets a lot of people confused. Backspacing is the more simple (and usable) measurement from the edge of the wheel to the mounting surface. So a smaller backspacing will make the tires stick out more, which gives more clearance between tires and suspension components, but you might risk the tires rubbing more at the rear of the front wheel wells during cornering.

Someone else will know about the exact tire/wheel/vehicle combination you have, but what you're trying to accomplish with those wheels sounds about right to me. You will probably need to get out the big hammer for the body seam in the front wheel wells.