I have a '98 F-150 that is getting new tires and wheels. I am replacing the stock chrome 17' wheels with the same year FX4 17' wheels. Will I need new lug nuts since the lug nuts are now exposed with this type of wheel vs covered in the chrome wheel? If so, what size or type will I need?
Secondly, I am thinking of upsizing from 265/70/17 to 275/70/17 with Goodyear Silent Armors (the last original GYs lasted 12 years and over 50k). That is the maximum size I can do without expensive new wheels. I have heard of slight mileage and speedometer issues but anything else I should be concerned of?
Lastly, any inputs on a spacer to make the rear wheels flush with the body vs inside of the body?
Thanks

 

Wheel spacers are generally a bad idea. If you want the wheels to "stick out" more, go with a wider aftermarket wheel. As for tires, I'd go with a 285/70-17 (33x11.50) at least (if you have a 4x4). Also, any wheel shop or parts store should have replacement lugs. One thing to remember, your truck has 12mm studs while the 2000 and later trucks have larger 14mm studs. So you need a lug for you 12mm stud, but has the taper that the FX4 wheels use.

 

Thanks. The folks at the tire store told me they did not recommend 285s with the stock 17 wheel so it was 275 max. I will get the lugs for the alloy FX4 wheel.
Any suggestions out there for a minor 2-3" lift? The left rear quarter has always hung low and I thought a little height and lift might correct it and give it a new look. Not interested in a rough ride and the only off road I usually do it to a gravel bar boat ramp or rare hunting trip.

 

Just crank up the preload on the torsion bars and get an alignment.
As for a 275 being the maximum size, thousands of members here have run tires as large as 315/70-17 (35x12.50) without any problems.