I too ran 30x9.5 tires on the stock rim, then later, 31x10.5 and both worked fine.

However, there was a little bit of side-to-side wobble added when I went to the 31x10.5 tire. It was only noticeable taking turns on the highway or something, and it didn't cause any problems. Just felt a little different.

I drove it that way for a couple years no problem.

2002 Sportage 4dr 4x4 soon to undergo an Extreme Makeover!