Complete Guide to adding 35" Tires to your Ford Bronco
Wanting to add big beefy tires to your bronco we have created this guide to all things you must know and think about when performing this modification
The Ford Bronco is a versatile and rugged vehicle that can handle a variety of terrains and conditions. If you are looking to add 35-inch tires to your new Ford Bronco, there are several things that you need to keep in mind. This blog post will provide a detailed guide on how to add 35+ inch tires to your Ford Bronco.
Wheels:
Bolt Pattern:You May be wanting to upgrade your wheels while you are adding bigger tires. There are lots of wheels out there for the ford bronco factory bolt pattern is going to be 6/5.5 sometimes wheels manufactures show this bolt pattern spacing in inches as 6/139.7
Offset: From the Factory Non sasquatch models typically have a +55mm Offset while Sasquatch models come with +30 Wheels We recommend staying Between a 0mm and the stock +55 (stock) wheel offset as going to a negative offset may increase Radius Scrub. What is this and why should i be thinking about this ?
If you alter the alignment and the suspension angles by changing the wheel’s width and diameter, it can affect the offset and change the point where the flange centerline and steering axis touch the ground.
The result is a scrub radius, which directly affects your car’s stability, handling, and tire wear.
Sometimes drivers aren’t even aware that they unintentionally change the scrub radius when fitting custom wheels and oversized tires. The ones who intentionally adjust the scrub radius do it to change the car’s handling.
Lift Kit:
to For 35" wheels on a base model bronco you are going to need a 2" Lift. There are many ways to go about this. If you are looking for mostly the aesthetics of bigger off-road tires with a lift a wheel spacer kit will be perfect for you like this Zone Offroad Lift Kit which will lift the front 2" and the Rear 1". This will level out the factory rake in your bronco and give you the room you need for a 35x12.5
To Fit 37" tires you are going to need to go to a 2.0"-4" Lift kit most manufactures have tested and include specifics on what wheel and tire will fit with there lift kits
Choose the Right Tires
Choosing the right tires is essential when adding larger tires to your Bronco. The tires you select should have the correct load capacity and speed rating for your vehicle. Additionally, they should be designed to handle off-road conditions and provide the traction needed to navigate through mud, rocks, and other obstacles. Some popular brands for off-road tires include BF Goodrich, Nitto, and Toyo.
Upgrade Your Suspension
Adding larger tires to your Bronco can put a strain on the suspension system, which may lead to handling issues and reduced ride quality. Upgrading your suspension is essential when adding larger tires to your Bronco. A suspension lift kit will help increase ground clearance and provide enough space for the larger tires. There are several suspension kits available, including body lift kits, leveling kits, and full suspension lift kits. It is best to consult with a professional mechanic or off-road specialist to determine which kit is best for your Bronco.
Install the Tires
Once you have chosen the right tires and upgraded your suspension, it is time to install the new tires. It is recommended that you have a professional mechanic or tire installer complete this process. The installer will remove the old tires and install the new ones, ensuring that they are properly aligned and balanced. Additionally, they will make sure that the lug nuts are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.
Test the Tires
After the installation is complete, it is essential to test the new tires before taking your Bronco off-road. Test the tires by driving on a variety of terrains and at different speeds. This will help you get a feel for how the tires handle and ensure that they are properly balanced and aligned.
In conclusion, adding 35-inch tires to your new Ford Bronco is a great way to enhance its off-road capabilities. However, it is essential to ensure that there is enough clearance, choose the right tires, upgrade your suspension, have a professional install the tires, and test them thoroughly. Following these steps will help ensure that your Bronco is ready for any off-road adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What modifications are needed to fit 35 inch tires on a Ford Bronco?
To fit 35-inch tires on your Ford Bronco, you will need to make some modifications. Typically, a lift kit ranging from 2 to 4 inches is required, depending on the specific model and year. This helps to accommodate the larger tire size and prevents rubbing issues. Additionally, you may need to consider adjusting or replacing your fender flares, and trimming the wheel wells might also be necessary.
How does adding 35 inch tires affect the handling and performance of a Ford Bronco?
Adding 35-inch tires to your Ford Bronco can impact handling and performance in multiple ways. Larger tires can provide better ground clearance and improved off-road capability. However, they may also affect fuel efficiency, steering responsiveness, and braking performance. You might notice a stiffer ride and increased road noise due to the larger, more aggressive tire treads.
What is the cost range for installing 35 inch tires on a Ford Bronco?
The cost of installing 35-inch tires on your Ford Bronco can vary widely. Tire costs alone can range from $200 to $500 each, depending on the brand and quality. Lift kits can range from $500 to several thousand dollars. You should also budget for installation costs, which can run between $100 and $500 depending on the shop's labor rates.
Can 35 inch tires be added to a Ford Bronco without a lift, and if so, which models support this?
Some Ford Bronco models can accommodate 35-inch tires without a lift. Typically, the models with the Sasquatch package, such as the Badlands and Wildtrak trims, can support this modification. This is due to their enhanced suspension systems and already leveled stances. Without a lift, models without these packages may face significant rubbing issues.
What are the potential warranty implications of adding 35 inch tires to a Ford Bronco?
Adding 35-inch tires to your Ford Bronco can have warranty implications. Modifying your vehicle's suspension or wheel size may void certain parts of your warranty, especially if the changes lead to damage or wear on components like the transmission or drivetrain. It's important to check with your dealer to understand how these modifications can affect your specific warranty coverage.
What are the comparative advantages of 35 inch tires versus the stock size on a Ford Bronco?
When comparing 35-inch tires to the stock size tires on a Ford Bronco, there are several advantages and trade-offs. Pros: Larger tires can provide better ground clearance, improved traction in off-road conditions, and a more aggressive look. Cons: On the flip side, you may face decreased fuel efficiency, potential steering difficulties, and a stiffer ride. The decision to switch largely depends on your intended use of the vehicle.