I'm running BFGoodrich 285/55-20's on my 2005 AWD Sierra Denali Crew Cab. I've gotten about 60k mles out of them and the fronts are in dire need of replacement. The 285/55's are apx. 32.5" tall. I'd lke to bump up to 285/65-20's with a overall height of 34.7". The 55's were great, only occasionally rubbing if I had to wheel crank all the way in one direction and backing up. I'd like to raise the front end about 2" to level off with the stock rear end height. Anybody know/experience if I can squeeze the 285/65's under the front end with only a 2" lift? I'm concerned about ruining the nice ride (two kids under 4 and a sensitive wife!). There was a definite harness added when I went from the stock M/S Generals to the All Terrain BFG K/O's but we got used to it.

My 2nd question is if 1" or 2" is enough to run the 285/65's, what is the best way to raide the truck and have the least effect on ride quality?

Thanks, Rick

 

Typically, to clear a 35" tire, it takes a 6" suspension lift, and a little bit of trimming. A big part of how it will fit or not fit is the wheel width and offset. 33" tires usually need a torsion crank-up, or a lift & level kit, which usually gives 2-3 inches.

If you do adjust the torsion bars, be sure to have the alignment reset.

 

If you keep your wheel width under 9" and your offset at or around 4.75", then you won't have a problem with just cranking your bars a bit and adding a coil spacer to the rear.

I'd wait for the coil spacer until after you have the tires mounted and the bars cranked though, if they fit just fine, then drive to the alignment shop and you're finished. If they rub in the front, check to see how much, and also to see if it's just some trimmable plastic or something more substantial in the way. That way you can determine if cranking more is worth the rougher ride or if trimming some plastic will suffice.

As for the ride quality, get some shocks that are made for 2"-3" of lift. This should clear up most, if not all, of the slightly stiffer ride, unless of course you're cranked to the moon and the UCA's resting on the droop stops lol! BFG's tend to run a bit small anyways, so they won't be quite as big as advertised.

 

Thanks for all the good advice fellas.

I'm running a 8.5" rim so the 285/55's tuck nicely. I'll have to find a shop with the 285/65-20 in stock and see how they look.

Rick

 

I just have 2" keys in the front cranked, and fit my 295 75 16 bfg's just fine.
I actually fit them on the stock keys with no rub.

they are almost a 34" tire when measured. they will not tuck though.


do the denali's trucks have coil spring rears? or did you mean to get a 2" lift shackle instead of a coil spacer?

 

Change the T-bar keys, do a 3" body lift and you will be able to clear 35's, that is what I did.

If you want to keep the ride quality then just do a body lift, that is not touching the suspension at all.