Table of Contents
The Ram 1500 is a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts, offering a blend of power, comfort, and capability. One of the key upgrades for enhancing off-road performance is the installation of larger tires. This guide focuses on fitting 35-inch tires to your Ram 1500, ensuring you achieve the best performance on severe trails.
Understanding Tire Fitment
Before diving into the installation process, it’s crucial to understand the factors that influence tire fitment. Proper fitment ensures that your vehicle maintains its handling characteristics while providing the necessary clearance for off-road adventures.
- Wheel well clearance
- Suspension modifications
- Gear ratio considerations
- Alignment adjustments
Choosing the Right 35-Inch Tires
Selecting the right tires is essential for off-road performance. Here are some factors to consider when choosing 35-inch tires for your Ram 1500:
- Tread pattern: Look for aggressive tread patterns designed for off-road traction.
- Load rating: Ensure the tires can handle the weight of your truck and any additional gear.
- Sidewall strength: Opt for tires with reinforced sidewalls to resist punctures.
- Brand reputation: Choose reputable brands known for quality off-road tires.
Preparation for Installation
Before installing the new tires, proper preparation is essential. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth installation process:
- Gather tools: Make sure you have all necessary tools, including a jack, jack stands, and a tire iron.
- Inspect suspension: Check your suspension components for wear and ensure they are in good condition.
- Clean wheel wells: Remove any debris or mud from the wheel wells to prevent interference during installation.
Installation Process
Follow these steps to install 35-inch tires on your Ram 1500:
- Lift the vehicle: Use a jack to lift the truck and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove old tires: Loosen the lug nuts and remove the existing tires.
- Install new tires: Place the new 35-inch tires onto the wheel hubs and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the vehicle: Carefully lower the truck back to the ground.
- Tighten lug nuts: Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Post-Installation Checks
After installing your new tires, it’s important to perform some checks to ensure everything is functioning properly:
- Check for clearance: Inspect the wheel wells to ensure there is adequate clearance during full steering lock and suspension compression.
- Alignment: Have the vehicle’s alignment checked to prevent uneven tire wear.
- Air pressure: Verify the tire pressure matches the recommended settings for your new tires.
Benefits of Installing 35-Inch Tires
Upgrading to 35-inch tires on your Ram 1500 offers several benefits, enhancing your off-road experience:
- Improved ground clearance: Larger tires increase your vehicle’s ground clearance, allowing you to tackle rough terrain more effectively.
- Better traction: The increased surface area of larger tires provides better traction on various surfaces.
- Enhanced aesthetics: Bigger tires give your truck a more aggressive and rugged appearance.
- Increased approach angles: Larger tires improve approach and departure angles, making it easier to navigate obstacles.
Common Issues and Solutions
While installing 35-inch tires can significantly enhance your Ram 1500’s off-road capabilities, some common issues may arise:
- Rubber rubbing: If the tires rub against the fenders, consider adding a leveling kit or adjusting the suspension.
- Increased road noise: Larger tires may produce more road noise; consider sound-deadening materials if this becomes bothersome.
- Fuel economy: Be aware that larger tires can impact fuel efficiency; adjust your driving habits accordingly.
Conclusion
Installing 35-inch tires on your Ram 1500 can significantly enhance your off-road capabilities and provide a more aggressive look. By following this fitment guide, you can ensure a successful installation and enjoy the benefits of larger tires on severe trails. Always remember to perform regular maintenance and checks to keep your vehicle in optimal condition for all your off-road adventures.